UPAWS parvovirus puppies are at the center of a crisis gripping the Upper Peninsula’s largest animal shelter — and staff haven’t stopped working since.
On May 24, UPAWS — the UP’s largest animal shelter, located in Marquette County — announced a confirmed case of canine parvovirus after a recent litter of puppies was brought into the facility. Within hours, the shelter was in crisis mode.
Parvo is one of the most dangerous and contagious diseases a dog can contract. It attacks a dog’s white blood cells and gastrointestinal tract, and in puppies it can even damage the heart muscle. Without intensive treatment, it can be fatal.
UPAWS Shuts Doors As Parvovirus Spreads Through Puppy Litter
The moment parvo was confirmed, UPAWS moved fast. Dog surrenders were immediately suspended. Stray dog intakes were paused. The beloved UPAWS Dog Park — a community staple — was shut down until further notice. Enhanced sanitation, monitoring, and isolation procedures went into effect across the entire facility.
The shelter also temporarily closed to the public and non-essential traffic.
“These steps are being taken carefully and responsibly to help protect the health and safety of the animals in our care and throughout our community,” UPAWS said in a statement.
The ripple effects were felt across Marquette. Poet’s Pet Parlor, a local grooming and boarding business, urged any dog that had recently visited the UPAWS dog park or been adopted from the shelter to stay home.
“Parvo is an incredibly serious disease for dogs, especially for those who are unvaccinated, immunocompromised, or young and elderly,” the business warned on social media.
Staff Working Around The Clock
By May 27, UPAWS confirmed the good news — the virus appears to be isolated and under control. But the work is far from over.
The affected puppies are still receiving around-the-clock care from shelter staff, who have been working through the night to give them every possible chance at survival.
“The last few days have been difficult and emotional for our staff,” UPAWS wrote online, “but we remain focused on giving these animals the care and support they need while following strict veterinary guidance and safety protocols.”
“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has shared kind words, support, and encouragement during this time.”
How You Can Help
UPAWS says there is one thing the public can do right now: donate.
The shelter receives no operating funds from any government agency and relies entirely on community support. They save 98% of the animals who come through their doors — one of the highest rates in the state.
If you’d like to support UPAWS during this difficult time, you can donate directly at upaws.org.
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