The Montgomery County Animal Services and Adoption Center in Derwood closed to the public Thursday due to an outbreak of canine influenza virus (CIV).
Residents are asked not to bring stray animals to the center until it repens. All dogs currently in the shelter are now in isolation.
One dog tested positive, and 22 others are showing signs of CIV symptoms.
Adoptions of other animals are paused, and staff will announce the center’s reopening when this contagious outbreak is over.
CIV is a respiratory disease caused by a specific strain of type A influenza virus.
The virus is spread mainly from infected dogs to other dogs or cats through coughing, sneezing, barking or nuzzling and through contaminated surfaces and clothing. It is not transferable to people, but people can spread the virus to other dogs through clothing, equipment and their hands, according to animal services.
Symptoms include a cough, runny nose, eye discharge, fever, lethargy and poor appetite. The signs range in severity between no signs at all and severe illness resulting in death.
“Canine influenza is a highly contagious virus that spreads rapidly through a shelter’s dog population,” said MCASAC Chief Veterinarian Gregory Lawrence. “We will continue to do everything we can to prevent further spread of the virus and treat those dogs that are infected.”.
If your dog is showing any symptoms of CIV, contact your veterinarian immediately for assessment and early supportive treatment. Keep your dog separated from others for at least 28 days. Avoid trips to dog parks, doggy daycare, grooming and boarding facilities.
Most dogs recover within two-to-three weeks, but some will develop secondary bacterial infections that can lead to more severe illness.
MCASAC currently is accepting essential intakes of sick and injured animals or dogs that pose a threat to public safety.
Additional precautions to take to keep your dog safe:
- Limit direct contact with other dogs when on walks. Do not allow them to sniff one another.
- Avoid using shared toys or dishes.
- Consider skipping daycare, boarding, grooming facilities and dog parks.
- Contact your dog’s daycare or boarding facility and ask about recent cases and cleaning protocols.
