Wake Co. Animal Center to resume pet adoptions on Monday after dog-flu outbreak

The Wake County Animal Center announced Saturday they will resume adoptions again after an eight-week closure due to a dog-flu outbreak.

According to the Animal Center, adoption services will resume on Monday, December 4. The adoptions are by appointment only.

“That flu virus is still out there,” Wake County Animal Center Director Jennifer Federico said. “But soon, for the first time in weeks, dogs and cats will finally be able to find their forever home.”

The center had been closed for eight weeks as it managed a dog flu outbreak.

“We’re so relieved that these efforts helped us to contain the virus and prevent even more animals from dying or becoming sick,” Wake County Commissioner Vickie Adamson said. “What we need right now from our local community is for them to adopt local and support local.”

Adoptions for cats resume on Monday, while adoptions for dogs resume on Wednesday. The shelter said they have 13 cats, 20 kittens and over 100 dogs available for adoption.

While adoptions are resuming, the shelter said they will continue to suspend owner surrenders until further notice.

“Since December 2022, we have been at full or over capacity with dogs from the Wake County community,” Federico said. “The owner is the best advocate for their pet as they know them better than anyone, so they can find the right fit for them in a new home.”

After losing four dogs to the virus, the Animal Center waited to make sure they were not spreading the virus.

Federico says they’ll be watching closely for any future flareups of canine flu, and encourage people in the community to do the same.

Make sure your pets receive proper vaccinations as part of responsible pet ownership, to prioritize their safety.