AUBURN — Police say they are investigating the source of puppies diagnosed with canine parvovirus infection sold from a Lake Street home.
Auburn police executed a search warrant Dec. 19 at Steven and Leala Evans’ home at 129 Lake St., according to a statement from Deputy Police Chief Jason Moen. The department received a complaint that a puppy purchased from the Evanses was diagnosed with CPV, according to Moen.
The Evanses do not have a license to sell pets at that location.
Police found 15 dogs in the residence. Seven of the dogs were puppies — three exhibited symptoms of CPV. All 15 dogs have been placed in an in-house quarantine with the requirement that the three puppies be examined by a veterinarian within 24 hours.
CPV infection is a highly contagious viral illness that affects dogs. It is characterized by vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss and lack of appetite — usually affecting puppies between 6 weeks and 6 months old.
An investigation seeks to find dogs that were sold or given away by the couple. Four customers who purchased dogs now diagnosed with CPV have been identified, according to Moen. The animals were advertised for sale on Craigslist, Uncle Henry’s and Facebook, he said.
Anyone with information regarding this case should contact Special Enforcement Officer Michael Chaine at 207-333-6650, ext. 2058 or mchaine@auburnmaine.gov.
Send questions/comments to the editors.
