The fun and festive holidays are turning into a danger zone for our pets.

The state of Michigan Friday night warns pet owners about a mysterious illness affecting young dogs. The warning came after dozens of dogs got sick at a shelter up north, with 20 of them dying.

DETROIT – A Detroit woman is frustrated that Michigan veterinary clinics still aren’t allowing pet owners inside after two of her dogs died in a matter of weeks. Businesses across the state of Michigan have reopened, but many veterinary clinics are keeping pet parents outside. Making matters worse, during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, owners aren’t being allowed inside vet offices. Maureen Kearns, of Detroit, said it’s critical to reopen the doors to owners. What I’d like to see is just that at least one pet parent be able to go in with the animal.”In Michigan, veterinarians can decide whether to allow pet owners inside their hospitals.

The health of pets could also be suffering as pet owners fall behind with their pet vaccinations. Veterinarians said theyre seeing a spike in an illness that can be deadly. Blu Pearl Veterinarian has 90 pet hospitals in 26 states, including Michigan is reporting a rise in canine parvovirus cases. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, parvo is a highly contagious virus that can affect all dogs. Veterinarians are able to give support to the infected dog in order to help the dogs immune system fight off the virus.