Emaciated puppies from northern Manitoba need plasma transfusions to survive
Manitoba Underdogs Rescue is struggling to look after four critically ill puppies and needs financial help.
The four eight-week-old puppies came to the rescue group from northern Manitoba over the weekend. The puppies are infected with parvovirus.
The puppies — named Forte, Cadence, Opus and Presto — are in the care of Manitoba Underdogs and are being treated at the Southglen Veterinary Hospital.
They are emaciated, dehydrated and will require plasma transfusions to try and save their young lives, Underdogs executive director Jessica Hansen said in a news release.
"These puppies were rushed to us from a northern community over the weekend. They're extremely ill and we're thankful that they were brought into our care," she said.
"Veterinary care isn't readily available in the north and surrendering them was the best shot these guys had for survival. The amazing people at K-9 advocates Manitoba found these pups and knew that we could give them a shot at survival."
Canine parvovirus is a highly contagious viral disease that can be fatal. General symptoms include lethargy, severe vomiting, loss of appetite and diarrhea that can lead to life-threatening dehydration. Even with veterinary intervention, the prognosis isn't always positive.
"These little guys are in the fight of their life," said Hansen.
"We're trying to provide them with every opportunity to live long happy lives, but the expenses are overwhelming. Parvovirus requires constant veterinary care and supervision. It definitely isn't a cheap virus to beat."
The puppies will need about $4,000 in care, and that's a lot for the small organization to take on, Hansen said.
Manitoba Underdogs Rescue is asking the public for donations to help the Parvo pups in their fight. Donations are now being accepted at Southglen Veterinary Hospital and on the Manitoba Underdogs website.
