The Franklin County Dog Shelter and Adoption Center is currently dealing with an upper respiratory infection that has spread to some of the dogs in their care. The director of the shelter, Kaye Persinger, described the infection as a “low-risk” situation, stating that these types of infections are common, especially during the summer months when more stray dogs are taken in that may not be vaccinated. While there is a possibility of the infection spreading to humans, Persinger reassured that the risk is low. She likened the shelter to a jail or hospital, where the more dogs they take in, the more diseases they have to manage.
To combat the spread of the infection, the shelter has implemented strict cleaning protocols and separated the infected dogs from the healthy ones. A good medical team is in place to test and treat the infected dogs, helping to control the outbreak. Two emails sent by a coordinator at the shelter outlined the precautions that staff and volunteers should take, including wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) and following specific cleaning procedures. The coordinator also mentioned that all dogs would be tested to determine the extent of the outbreak.
In light of the infection outbreak, staff and volunteers at the shelter have been advised to wear PPE while working, but only for a short time. They are instructed to change their PPE between wards and interact with the dogs cautiously to prevent contamination. Persinger expressed hope that these safety measures would only be necessary for a brief period and assured that any changes in the situation would be communicated promptly. She also took the opportunity to remind pet owners to have their dogs vaccinated and seek veterinary care if any symptoms of illness, such as heavy wheezing or nasal discharge, are observed.
Overall, the Franklin County Dog Shelter and Adoption Center is taking proactive steps to manage the upper respiratory infection affecting some of the dogs in their care. By implementing strict cleaning protocols, separating infected dogs, and advising staff and volunteers to wear PPE, the shelter is working to prevent further spread of the infection. Persinger emphasized the importance of vaccination for pet owners and highlighted the low risk of the infection spreading to humans. With the support of a dedicated medical team, the shelter is focused on treating the infected dogs and ensuring the health and safety of all animals in their care.
