TUCSON (KGUN9-TV) - When dogs first started coming into the veterinary
clinics, lethargic and vomiting, veterinarians didn't know exactly what they
were dealing with.

But now it's clear the new virus, circovirus, is one that originated in pigs
and birds, and vets say there are a lot more questions than answers.

Dogs around the country are falling ill to this potentially deadly disease,
and Dr. Ashleigh Rhoades from Southern Arizona Veterinary Center said owners
should be on the lookout.

"What they're going to see is a severe depression, collapse, weakness, this
vomiting and diarrhea and not wanting to eat," she said.

But if symptoms get this bad, Rhoades said dogs can suffer severe organ
failure and even die.

"As long as we can get them in early and start treatment, the prognosis is
much better," she explained. "The later we get these animals, the worse they
are and it's really tough...it's much tougher to get them healthy again."

Vets have seen possible cases in Ohio, Michigan and right next door in
California.

Experts aren't sure how the virus jumped from pigs and birds to man's best
friend, but they say between dogs, it's highly contagious, and more likely to
be spread through kennels or dog parks.

There is no vaccine for dogs as the virus is too new, but vets say it can be
treated and to get your pet in right away if it exhibits any of the symptoms.

Matt


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