TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY. N.C. (WLOS) — Transylvania County Animal Services announced Tuesday an immediate quarantine of its animal shelter due to an outbreak of canine influenza and canine distemper.
This means the shelter will be closed to all surrenders and adoptions for at least two weeks, effective immediately, according to a press release from the county.
“Our goal is to limit exposure and isolate this outbreak for the safety of our shelter animals, your personal pets and all furry babies in our community,” the county said via release.
The release said Animal Services staff will continue to care for all quarantined dogs.
The shelter urges all local dog owners to take immediate precautions against these “serious” and “contagious” diseases, as they can lead to severe illness and, in some cases, death.
SPRING ALLERGIES IN PETS: SYMPTOMS TO WATCH OUT FOR AND HOW TO PREVENT
Symptoms of canine influenza (dog flu) include coughing, nasal discharge, sneezing, loss of appetite, lethargy and fever. Dog flu spreads through coughs, sneezes, contaminated surfaces and contact with infected dogs, according to Animal Services.
Symptoms of canine distemper include eye and nose discharge, fever, vomiting, coughing and labored breathing. Advanced stages of canine distemper can show symptoms of seizures, twitching or paralysis. Distemper spreads through coughs, sneezes and shared food and water bowls.
Owners are advised to ensure their dogs' vaccinations are up to date and consult a veterinarian if they notice any symptoms of dog flu or distemper in their pet.
