Rosque (pronounced Roscoe) is a beagle/rottie mix. I call him a “squattie roittie.” He’s 9-months-old and kind of short. He came into the shelter a happy, energetic and very loving dog.

Within days he began throwing up, experiencing diarrhea and generally showing symptoms of — and tested positive for — Parvovirus. Though he had been vaccinated at PAWS, he was exposed before his admittance into the shelter. Rosque was treated immediately and, over time, has made a great recovery.

Some dogs aren’t as fortunate. Watching him suffer is a lesson about the need to vaccinate our pets. Pets exposed to the Parvovirus are contagious even three weeks after recovery — if they recover. The virus can be transmitted via contact with feces, fur, hands, clothing, food and water dishes, toys and bedding. At this time, Rosque has been taken out of full quarantine. He can now play with vaccinated dogs at the shelter. He will be Parvo-free very soon and ready for adoption! He is quite the friendly little bundle of love. He will need regular exercise with an active family.

Rosque is available for adoption through PAWS Of Grays Harbor. 800 W 1st St. in Aberdeen. (360) 533-1141. They are open for adoption on Wednesdays from 10:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. and Saturdays from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m.. You can also find them on Facebook.

— Photo and description by Marcy Merrill