Follow Guidelines to Prevent Canine Parvovirus

The Logansport Parks & Recreation Department has discussed our concerns with a local veterinarian about Canine Parvovirus in relation to the Wright Street Bark Park (WSBP). We were reminded that dogs whose owners follow the rules of the WSBP, are not as susceptible to Canine Parvovirus. This disease is totally preventable by ensuring that your dog has received the full series of vaccines and/or boosters for the Distemper/Parvovirus vaccine.  After this discussion, rather than closing the park, we felt it more important to remind the public about guidelines in using, not only the WSBP, but any public facilities such as trails or other open spaces.  Ultimately, the pet owner must make the best decision for their dog and their family.  

Most importantly, the following canines are prohibited from the Wright Street Bark Park: 

•    canines under the age of 6 months, 

•    female dogs in heat, or 

•    dogs that exhibit aggressive or dangerous behavior, and 

•    dogs that are NOT up-to-date on vaccinations including the distemper/parvovirus vaccines. 

Users of the WSBP are required to keep litter and dog waste picked up at all times. Users are encouraged to utilize the dog waste stations located near the entrance of the WSBP.  

We also suggest that users of the WSBP bring their own toys, and water bowl for their canine. 

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, vaccination and other preventive measures—including good hygiene—are key to avoiding Canine Parvovirus infection.  These additional measures also can help protect your dog and other animals from Canine Parvovirus and other infectious agents:

•    Until the initial vaccination series is complete, use caution when bringing puppies to places where dogs gather. This includes pet shops, parks, puppy and obedience classes, doggy day cares, kennels, and groomers.

•    Choose establishments and training programs that require up-to-date vaccinations, health examinations, good hygiene, and isolation of sick puppies and dogs.

•    Keep your dog away from other dogs when sick, including other dogs within your home.

•    Avoid contact with known infected dogs and their premises.

•    Keep your dog away from other dogs’ feces.

•    Routinely collect and properly dispose of your dog’s feces.

•    If you’ve been in contact with dogs with or exposed to parvovirus, avoid handling other dogs, or wash your hands and change your clothes before doing so.

Questions can be directed to the Parks Administrator, Janet Fawley at 753-6969 or e-mail at parksadministrator@cityoflogansport.org .