Title: Canine Influenza Outbreak Forces Wake County Animal Shelter Closure
In a bid to contain the spread of the highly contagious canine influenza, the Wake County Animal Shelter in North Carolina has announced that it will remain closed throughout the month of November. The shelter made the difficult decision after witnessing four dogs succumb to the flu, with four others currently under treatment and an unprecedented 30 falling sick.
Though the situation appears bleak, there is some hope as 77 dogs have successfully recovered from the virus. However, the shelter is now seeking assistance from rescue organizations to help relocate dogs from their facility and offer aid to abandoned strays.
With the aim of preventing further transmission, the public is being urged to ensure their pets are up to date with their vaccinations and to avoid public places where unknown dogs may gather. Boarding facilities must also take necessary precautions, such as enhanced sanitation efforts and implementing quarantine areas, to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pet owners have been encouraged to take immediate measures to protect their beloved companions and to minimize the risk of community transmission. Highlighting the importance of mainstream participation, authorities have implored individuals to open up their homes to stray animals, make efforts to reunite them with their owners, and provide any available services.
Due to the shelter closure, activities such as adoptions, surrenders, and animal control agencies picking up strays or owner surrenders have been temporarily paused. However, the good news is that all foster pets are available for adoption, and for those with lost animals, they can contact the Animal Center to inquire if their pet has been found.
For pets facing health or behavioral issues, euthanasia appointments can be requested through the shelter’s services, ensuring compassionate care for those in need. Meanwhile, phone support is readily provided to assist with rehoming and locating the owners of stray animals.
To stay updated on the status of the canine influenza outbreak and the shelter’s efforts to combat it, concerned individuals are encouraged to visit the official website of Wake County at wake.gov.
As the community comes together to contain this concerning situation, the Wake County Animal Shelter remains optimistic that with collective action, they can overcome this challenge and continue providing compassionate care to animals in need.
