Genesee County Animal Control (GCAC) in Michigan recently announced that it would be temporarily closed due to an infectious disease outbreak. The shelter made this decision on July 22, citing cases of distemper, parvo, and kennel cough among the strays brought into the facility.
According to GCAC, all the reported cases were from stray animals, and symptoms began to manifest after the five-day quarantine period. This situation highlights the challenges faced by open intake shelters that take in abused and neglected animals from the streets. Despite receiving intake shots upon arrival, these animals still remain vulnerable to diseases, as the shots only provide limited protection and do not completely prevent the spread of viruses.
In response to the outbreak, GCAC has implemented rigorous cleaning protocols and intensified medical testing and treatment for the affected animals. However, the shelter is also seeking assistance from the public to prevent further spread of the disease. GCAC emphasizes the importance of vaccinating animals against diseases and seeking medical treatment promptly if they show signs of illness. Failure to do so could be considered criminal neglect.
Additionally, GCAC urges individuals who come across stray animals to hold them for a few days and attempt to locate the owner through social media before bringing them to a shelter. Moreover, when the shelter is at full capacity, pet owners looking to surrender their animals are encouraged to explore alternative options, such as rehoming through social media or other intake shelters, before resorting to GCAC.
The shelter reassures the public that it will reopen to regular operations once the medical emergency is under control and measures are in place to prevent infected animals from entering the facility. In the meantime, GCAC is committed to addressing the current outbreak and ensuring the well-being of the animals in its care.
In conclusion, the temporary closure of Genesee County Animal Control serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible pet ownership and proactive measures to prevent the spread of infectious diseases among animals. By working together, both the shelter and the community can help safeguard the health and welfare of vulnerable animals in need.
