When six tiny, terrier mix puppies were surrendered to our shelter partner Animal Care Centers of NYC (ACC), they were already fighting a deadly battle. At just 10 weeks old, they had contracted parvovirus — a highly contagious and often fatal disease. Without immediate intervention, their future was grim. That’s when North Shore Animal League America stepped in.
As leaders in treating parvovirus cases, we acted immediately. Our Rescue Team transported the puppies to our Freed Special Recovery Center, where our veterinary staff was ready to provide lifesaving care. Despite our rapid response, one puppy was already too sick to survive and tragically passed away upon arrival.
The remaining five began intensive treatment immediately. Their bright, curious eyes were dull with exhaustion. Puppies should be full of life, tails wagging, eager to explore. Instead, these little ones lay still, too weak to lift their heads, their small bodies ravaged by the virus.
Fortunately, our Freed Special Recovery Center is uniquely equipped to handle parvovirus cases, with a survival rate for the disease of nearly 90%. This facility allows us to isolate and treat multiple cases simultaneously, using well-developed medical protocols refined through years of experience. Treatment includes intravenous fluids, nutritional support, antibiotics to prevent secondary infections, and symptomatic care such as anti-nausea medication, anti-diarrheals, appetite stimulants, and pain management.
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While some of the puppies improved quickly, others remained in critical condition. But at Animal League America, we don’t give up. Every pup received the individualized care they needed to recover. “Our experience treating parvovirus has allowed us to develop highly effective medical protocols,” said Dr. Mark Verdino, Animal League America Chief of Veterinary Staff. “We are able to give these puppies the best chance at survival, even in the most critical cases. The key is immediate intervention and round-the-clock monitoring.”
Thanks to our dedicated care, all five pups made a full recovery. Now, they are healthy, playful, and — we’re so happy to announce — adopted into homes where they will be loved and cherished for a lifetime. Providing this level of intensive, specialized care comes at a significant cost, but at Animal League America we believe every life is worth saving. With donor support, our expertise and unwavering no-kill commitment, we can give animals like these a second chance at a healthy, happy future.
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