A man who received a free puppy from a woman in Jamestown contacted PAWS Along the River animal shelter in Warren, Pa, seeking help for the sick animal.

The puppy, suffering from diarrhea and vomiting, was brought to the shelter, where a stool sample and blood test were taken under strict safety measures, including staff wearing gloves and gowns and staying outside of the facility. The test results confirmed the presence of parvovirus, a highly contagious and often deadly disease in unvaccinated dogs.

The case is a reminder of the hidden costs of “free” pets. While receiving a puppy at no charge may seem like a good deal, the lack of vaccinations and proper care can quickly lead to expensive medical treatments.

According to New York state law, puppies and kittens must be at least eight weeks old before being separated from their mother. During this early period, they should also receive their first round of vaccinations, known as “puppy shots,” which protect them from deadly diseases such as distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, and parainfluenza (DHPP). Rabies and leptospirosis vaccines are essential to safeguard their health and prevent spreading infections.

“Spring is here, and with it comes an influx of puppies and kittens,” said Jody Hollabaugh, Director of PAWS Along the River. “Unfortunately, we are seeing more cases of animals being surrendered due to owners not being able to afford veterinary care. By the time they reach us, their condition has often worsened, leading to higher medical costs and lower chances of recovery.”

The issue extends beyond dogs. PAWS has also seen an increase in cats testing positive for serious illnesses such as feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia virus (FeLV). Even indoor-only cats can be exposed to diseases, underscoring the importance of preventive veterinary care.

To help pet owners provide affordable care, Tractor Supply in Warren offers a clinic with transparent pricing with no office visit fees, making vaccinations and preventive treatments more accessible. Dates for upcoming clinics at Tractor Supply in Warren are on Saturday, Apr 5, 19, and May 3, 17, and 31 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

“Everything we do is in the best interest of the animals and the welfare of Warren County,” Hollabaugh emphasized. “By raising awareness and encouraging responsible pet ownership, we can help prevent situations like this from happening again.”

Pet owners are urged to ensure their animals receive proper vaccinations and medical care to protect their pets and prevent the spread of contagious diseases within the community.