Three confirmed cases of Canine Pneumovirus have prompted Austin Animal Services to temporarily overhaul its shelter operations and adoption rules.
What is Canine Pneumovirus?
Canine Pneumovirus is a highly contagious upper respiratory virus that affects only dogs. While it is not fatal, it can cause significant discomfort and spread rapidly among canine populations. The virus is known to be transmitted through close contact and contaminated surfaces.
“Several other dogs are currently showing respiratory symptoms,” AAS said. “The virus does not infect cats or humans; however, people can carry the virus on their hands and clothing and unintentionally spread it between dogs.”
The agency emphasized that the virus poses no threat to humans or other animals, but human carriers can inadvertently facilitate its transmission between dogs.
Operational Changes
To curb the spread, AAS will quarantine dogs as needed and transfer them to clear space on campus. The shelter will also support quarantine conditions for affected animals.
“These temporary operational changes are expected to remain in place until early January, with updates provided to the public as the situation evolves,” AAS said.
The temporary measures include limiting dog intakes, with exceptions only for extreme emergencies, until January. Appointments for pet meet and greets have been rescheduled to reduce contact.
Volunteer access to dogs has been restricted, and dog walking and playgroups have been temporarily paused to minimize potential exposure.
Adoption Policy Adjustments
Despite the virus, AAS will continue to accept dog adoptions. However, new adopters will be limited to homes that do not already have other dogs.
This policy aims to prevent the introduction of the virus into multi-dog households and to protect both shelter animals and potential adopters.
Adoption counselors will screen prospective families for the presence of other dogs and discuss the risks associated with the virus.
Families who meet the criteria will still be able to adopt a dog, but the process will include additional health screenings and education.
Additional Prevention Measures
AAS has outlined several other steps to contain the virus. These include further restrictions on dog intakes, with exceptions only for extreme emergencies, until January.
Appointments for pet meet and greets have been rescheduled to limit the number of people in close proximity to dogs.
Volunteer access to dogs has been limited, and dog walking and playgroups have been temporarily paused to reduce contact.
The shelter also continues to accept donations of sheets, blankets, towels for kennel bedding, and homemade food enrichment treats for dogs during recovery.
Community Support and Donations
The shelter expressed gratitude for community support as it worked to protect animals and limit illness spread. Donations of bedding and treats help keep dogs comfortable during quarantine.
AAS thanked volunteers, donors, and the public for their continued assistance in managing the outbreak.
The agency encourages ongoing donations to support the shelter’s recovery efforts and maintain essential services.
Community involvement is vital to ensuring the health and safety of shelter animals during this period.
Key Takeaways
- Three confirmed Canine Pneumovirus cases prompted operational changes.
- Adoptions continue but are limited to homes without other dogs.
- Temporary measures remain until early January, with updates as the situation evolves.
Austin Animal Services is actively managing the outbreak while maintaining essential services for shelter animals. The agency will continue to update the public as new information emerges.
