Adoption pending for dog in care of RACC that survived parvo and distemper

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- A dog taken into the care of Richmond Animal Care and Control (RACC) in September, that had parvo and tested positive for distemper, has both survived and recovered, marking the nonprofit's first living confirmed positive distemper case.

On Monday, Oct. 20, RACC posted to social media announcing that a dog named Marshal came into the facility's care on Sept. 10 with parvo, a highly contagious virus that causes severe illness in young and unvaccinated dogs.

The dog survived treatment, but due to additional, persistent symptoms, RACC staff could not clear him. Marshal received fluids and was tested, after which he tested positive for distemper, a highly contagious and potentially deadly disease.

The nonprofit said it has never seen a living confirmed distemper case at the shelter.

Marshal, an adoptable dog at RACC who survived both parvo and distemper. (Photo: Richmond Animal Care and Control)

Marshal, an adoptable dog at RACC who survived both parvo and distemper. (Photo: Richmond Animal Care and Control)

Marshal, an adoptable dog at RACC who survived both parvo and distemper. (Photo: Richmond Animal Care and Control)

Marshal, an adoptable dog at RACC who survived both parvo and distemper. (Photo: Richmond Animal Care and Control)

"How is it possible to survive parvo AND distemper you ask," RACC said in the post. "Marshal is a miracle!"

Marshal was reportedly cleared from medical quarantine. In an update on social media, RACC said Marshal's adoption was pending.