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Golden retriever puppies with potentially deadly virus found abandoned in Boston

One of the dogs, named Big Red, will be up for adoption once the virus and gastrointestinal parasites clear his system.

Big Red during his hospitalization. MSPCA-Angell

September 17, 2025

1 minute to read

MSPCA-Angell is advising owners to vaccinate their dogs after golden retriever puppies with a potentially deadly disease were found abandoned in Boston.

Five young puppies were found near Geneva Avenue in Dorchester on Aug. 23, and three of the puppies tested positive for the Parvovirus.

“Parvo is highly contagious and potentially deadly, so when the puppies tested positive, Boston Animal Control immediately reached out to us for help,” said Mike Keiley, vice president of the MSPCA-Angell’s Animal Protection Division.

Parvovirus can be transmitted from dog to dog or from indirect exposure to things contaminated by feces. The virus can kill an infected puppy within 48 hours of showing symptoms, according to MSCPA-Angell.

“Golden Retrievers are a highly sought-after breed, so it’s abnormal that a bunch were found sick and alone outside like this,” Keiley continued. “No one has stepped forward to claim the dogs, so considering all of the circumstances, we believe they were abandoned.”

Two of the three puppies with the Parvovirus were hospitalized for six days before entering foster care.

The third puppy with the virus, named Big Red, will be available for adoption within the next nine days after he clears the virus and gastrointestinal parasites from his system.

“We know that there will be a lot of interest in adopting Big Red. Although we can only pick one adopter, we’re so excited that he’ll soon have the very best home and a bright future after a challenging start,” Keiley said.

The investigation into the puppies’ abandonment remains ongoing between Boston Animal Control and MSPCA-Angell.