How to track parvovirus cases among Texas dogs

AUSTIN (KXAN) — An online tracking tool shows Texas leading the country with the most number of parvovirus cases among dogs, leading to a warning from local advocates to pet owners.

According to the ParvoTrack map, Texas reported at least 2,533 cases of the contagious and even deadly virus, which is spread mainly through contaminated dog feces. This service advises that there is currently a high risk of parvovirus in the state.

Experts at Austin Pets Alive! said Thursday that Travis County reported more than 200 cases in the area, and they expect this is only a fraction of the actual number. They said parvovirus usually peaks during the summer, but the risk is already on the rise across the country.

Parvovirus, or parvo, can infect any dog, but it can be especially dangerous for young or unvaccinated dogs. It can spread from dog to dog or through contaminated feces or surfaces, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. While humans can spread the virus on their hands or clothing, people are immune to parvo’s effects.

Once they're infected, the virus affects dogs' gastrointestinal systems.