Two dogs in the care of Irving Animal Services (IAS) have tested positive for Canine Distemper Virus (CDV). To prevent the further spread of the virus, IAS will not take in or adopt out any dogs until further notice.
Residents can still call or visit the Irving Animal Care Campus to adopt cats, reclaim lost pets and receive information and resources to address various animal issues.
CDV causes severe disease, including respiratory, gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms that can be life-threatening. CDV can quickly spread to other dogs when an infected dog from the community comes into the shelter. Despite its seriousness, however, CDV can be treated.
PROTECTIVE MEASURES
Shelters are particularly vulnerable to distemper outbreaks because many dogs who enter do not have protective immunity, particularly dogs younger than one year. IAS vaccinates animals at entry, but protective immunity is not immediate.
Animal Services' veterinarian and staff are assessing potential exposures in the shelter and isolating animals possibly exposed. When the exposed animals are isolated, the intakes and adoptions of dogs will resume.
IAS recommends all pet owners ensure their pets' vaccinations are up-to-date.
