Seven cases of canine distemper have been confirmed at Garland’s Animal Shelter. Shelter staff members are already taking proactive measures to keep the highly contagious disease from spreading. The first case was confirmed July 31. Staff immediately started testing other symptomatic dogs.
On Aug. 7, Garland Animal Services received test results from Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory on nine other samples. Seven of those nine came back positive.
Garland Animal Services continues to aggressively sanitize the shelter and is collaborating with Cornell University Shelter Medicine specialists to implement appropriate control measures. ALL dogs brought into the shelter will be tested for distemper and closely monitored for any symptoms. It is already routine to vaccinate every animal for distemper. Garland Animal Services also will work with rescue groups.
The shelter is currently waiting on other test results, so the number of cases could rise in the days ahead. No dog adoptions will take place until further notice. Cat adoptions will continue at the city’s Pet Adoption Center located in downtown Garland at 810 Main St.
If you adopted a dog in the past six weeks, and your dog is showing symptoms please contact the shelter at AnimalServices@GarlandTX.gov. We will be closely monitoring this email address and responding as quickly as possible.
Distemper is a highly contagious airborne virus that is ever-present in the environment and poses a constant threat to shelter settings. Symptoms include a thick discharge in nose and eyes, diarrhea, fever, coughing, loss of appetite, twitching and neurological signs. Dogs of all ages are most susceptible. All pets should be vaccinated against distemper.