LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) – The Henderson Animal Shelter has paused dog intakes once again after a case of canine influenza was confirmed on Wednesday.
City of Henderson officials say there is one confirmed case of H3N2 canine influenza virus, a highly contagious illness affecting dogs. There are also five pending test results and several symptomatic dogs under treatment.
The shelter is implementing restrictions on intakes, prioritizing dogs that are injured, ill, or pose a public safety risk.
This news comes after The Animal Foundation put out an urgent call for foster families to get dogs out of the shelter and stop the spread of canine influenza in the building. So far, six dogs have tested positive for the highly contagious virus at TAF, and more than a hundred are showing symptoms of respiratory disease, some awaiting test results.
Shelter Administrator Danielle Harney says the virus did not originate within the shelter, but it is believed to have been brought in by a previously infected surrender dog, or dogs. The shelter will be pausing intakes and adoptions to prevent further spread.
All affected animals are being quarantined and treated diligently, according to shelter officials. They add that the next four weeks are critical in ensuring all symptomatic or exposed animals are separated, tested, and cared for.
According to the shelter, the H3N2 presents symptoms similar to “kennel cough,” which manifests as sneezing, nasal discharge, and persistent coughing, alongside a fever and lethargy.
The shelter is advising pet owners to make sure their pets are up-to-date on their vaccinations, keep pets away from public places with unknown dogs, and ensure any boarding facilities are taking precautions to prevent disease spread.
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