El Dorado County Animal Services in South Lake Tahoe has temporarily suspended dog adoptions at its shelter as a precaution after identifying at least two cases of parvovirus this week.

The dog kennel area at the shelter will be closed until March 11 while shelter staff investigate, perform additional deep cleaning and disinfecting of all kennels and monitor the current dogs on site, a press release from El Dorado County Health and Human Services Agency’s Public Health Division stated.

Canine parvovirus is a highly contagious viral disease that can produce life-threatening illness in dogs. The virus can be spread to other dogs through direct contact with an infected dog’s feces. Symptoms of parvovirus typically include lethargy, vomiting, loss of appetite and bloody diarrhea that can lead to dehydration, the release stated. Treatment for parvovirus includes antibiotics, drugs to control vomiting, intravenous fluids and other supportive therapies.

“We want to keep a watchful eye on the dogs and take every precaution to ensure that they are healthy,” Robert Gerat, supervising animal services officer in South Lake Tahoe, stated in the release.

Parvovirus can be prevented through vaccinations.

“Parvovirus vaccination is very important for all dogs,” Gerat stated. “Because puppies who are not fully vaccinated are most at risk for getting parvovirus, it is recommended that they not be allowed to walk in parks or other public places until they have completed their vaccination series.”

The business office of Animal Services and cat adoption area will remain open.

For questions about the temporary suspension of dog adoptions at the animal shelter, contact shelter staff at 530-573-7925. Additional information about El Dorado County Animal Services can be found at http://www.edcgov.us/animalservices.