Warwick City Dog Park Open Again Today

WARWICK, RI — The Warwick City Dog Park, closed Sept. 12 due to a case of Parvovirus, a very contagious, possibly fatal disease affecting dogs’ gastrointestinal tracts, is open again this morning, Warwick Mayor Joseph Solomon announced.

The decision to close the park was made within an hour of the Parks and Recreation Department learning a dog later diagnosed with Parvo had been at the dog park. James Scott, parks and recreation director consulted with the Warwick Police Animal Control unit and the state veterinarian prior to the closure and today’s reopening.

Because Parvo is a highly contagious disease, Solomon’s office reminded pet owners that dogs must be fully vaccinated in order to use the park.

Dogs most at risk for contracting parvo are dogs younger than six months old, compromised and unvaccinated dogs and those that are not completely vaccinated. Among the most common symptoms are diarrhea, lethargy, fever, vomiting, weight loss, depression, dehydration, weakness, and anorexia. Dogs that exhibit these symptoms should be taken to a vet immediately as timely treatment is important for a successful outcome.