LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) – The Henderson Animal Shelter announced a temporary pause in adoptions on Thursday as cases of a respiratory virus in dogs continue to surge.
According to a spokesperson for the City of Henderson, one case of the virus has been confirmed at the shelter. The virus, known as canine Pneumovirus, is a contagious respiratory virus that primarily affects dogs and causes coughing, sneezing, and nasal discharge. If left untreated, the virus can progress to pneumonia and difficulty breathing.
Several other dogs are suspected to have the virus as well, based on observed symptoms. Currently, there is no vaccine for the virus, and the virus is not contagious to humans or cats.
In addition to the adoption pause, Henderson Animal Care and Control is temporarily stopping the intake of relinquished pets and encouraging owners to explore rehoming options, rescue groups, or asking friends and family for assistance.
“This is a big move for us, and not one that we take lightly,” said Danielle Harney, Animal Control Administrator. “We feel this change to operations is necessary to preserve the health of the more than 75 dogs we have here currently and prevent further spread of the virus. We need to be transparent, and we hope our community can empathize with the difficult position we’re in. The diseases and viruses we observe here at the shelter are a snapshot of what’s occurring in the community, so if we are seeing Pneumovirus that means it’s also existing outside of our facility. We’d like to warn pet owners to be mindful of these symptoms and to speak with their veterinarian should their dog appear sick.”
Adoptions of cats and other critters are still open to the public.
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