by Boston, MA – Three young golden retriever puppies fighting for their lives after being abandoned with a potentially deadly disease have found hope thanks to a swift rescue and dedicated care. Boston Animal Control discovered the puppies, all under six months old, on August 23 in the Geneva Avenue area of Dorchester, revealing a distressing case of abandonment and illness.
The puppies tested positive for parvovirus, a highly contagious and often fatal disease for dogs. With urgent efforts from local animal welfare groups like MSPCA-Angell, two of the sickest puppies have made significant progress and are now on their way to new families and fresh beginnings.
The Harsh Reality of Parvovirus and Abandonment
Parvovirus, or parvo, is notorious for its rapid and dangerous impact on puppies. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), it causes symptoms including:
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting
- Severe, often bloody diarrhea
- Abdominal pain and bloating
- Fever or hypothermia
Mike Keiley, Vice President of MSPCA-Angell’s Animal Protection Division, emphasized the urgency of the situation:
“Parvo is highly contagious and potentially deadly, so when the puppies tested positive, Boston Animal Control immediately reached out to us for help.”
Parvovirus can be fatal within 48 hours of symptom onset, making timely intervention crucial. The fact that these puppies were found isolated and sick raised serious concerns about neglect and abandonment. Keiley remarked, “Golden retrievers are a highly sought-after breed, so it’s abnormal that a bunch were found sick and alone outside like this… We believe they were abandoned.”
Recovery and the Path to Adoption
The MSPCA-Angell took in two of the sickest puppies, providing intensive care at their hospital. After about six days of treatment, these puppies transitioned to foster homes, continuing their recovery journey. One pup, named Big Red, was the most severely ill but has shown remarkable improvement.
MSPCA-Angell shared hopeful updates on social media, noting Big Red’s strength and progress. The organization has received over 400 adoption applications for Big Red alone, underscoring the community’s compassion and eagerness to give these puppies a new lease on life.
- The two puppies cared for by MSPCA-Angell are now in foster homes and recovering well.
- Big Red is nearing the end of his treatment and expected to be ready for adoption soon.
- The third puppy, fully recovered, is available for adoption through Boston Animal Control.
“Although we can only pick one adopter for Big Red, we’re excited that he’ll soon have the very best home and a bright future after a challenging start,” Keiley said.
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Protecting Pets: The Importance of Vaccination
Using this incident as a teaching moment, MSPCA-Angell urges dog owners to keep vaccinations up to date, particularly against parvovirus. Keiley warned:
“[Parvovirus] is a really contagious virus that can live for a long time outside in the environment, so it’s incredibly dangerous, and dogs can be infected without knowing it… Fortunately, vaccines are hugely effective and broadly available, so we hope that this serves as a reminder to people: Please vaccinate your dogs!”
Parvovirus poses a significant threat in communities, but with awareness and preventive care, pet owners can protect their furry friends from this dangerous virus.
For more detailed information on this story and the rescue efforts, visit People.com.
What Do You Think About This Rescue Story?
The courageous rescue of these golden retriever puppies highlights both the dangers of abandonment and the power of community care. Have you ever adopted a pet in need or experienced caring for a sick animal? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below!
