Urgent Call for Fosters: Austin Pets Alive! Battles Dog Virus Outbreak
The city of Austin is facing a challenging situation as a contagious respiratory virus has broken out among the canine population at Austin Animal Services. With the shelter at full capacity, a proactive measure was taken to safeguard the health of the animals and the community. On Sunday, approximately 20 dogs were transferred to Austin Pets Alive!, a non-profit organization dedicated to animal welfare.
The virus, known as pneumovirus, is non-fatal but highly contagious. It presents symptoms similar to a common cold in dogs, including a runny nose, cough, and occasional fever. While it exclusively affects dogs, humans can act as carriers, making it a concern for both animal and human health.
The outbreak was first identified on Wednesday, with three confirmed cases at Austin Animal Services. However, the numbers are rising, with at least 50 dogs exhibiting symptoms. The shelter's staff emphasizes that the virus has been rapidly spreading across the country, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
To prevent further spread, Austin Animal Services is seeking foster homes for the affected dogs. The ideal foster candidates are those without other dogs in their households, ensuring the safety of the dogs and the community. By temporarily housing the dogs, fosters play a crucial role in containing the virus and protecting the overall animal welfare system.
Elizabeth Ferrer, from Austin Animal Services, advises, "We urge potential fosters and adopters to take action immediately. By keeping their dogs separate from other dogs, they can prevent the virus from spreading within the community. This is a critical step in maintaining the health and well-being of our furry friends in Austin."
Austin Pets Alive! is aiming to accommodate around 25 to 35 dogs in foster homes for a minimum of three weeks. Jordana Moerbe, the medical director, highlights the importance of foster homes in preventing illness in shelter environments. She states, "Foster homes are a powerful tool in our fight against the spread of disease. By opening your home temporarily, you're not just helping the dog in your care but also contributing to the protection of many other animals in the system."
Individuals interested in fostering a dog from Austin Pets Alive! are encouraged to visit the shelter's main location at 1156 West Cesar Chavez St. They can do so before 6 p.m. on Sunday or after 12 p.m. on Monday. This timely intervention is crucial to controlling the virus and ensuring the health and happiness of Austin's canine companions.
