(Hilliard, OH, December 15, 2020) – Earlier this month, Columbus Humane admitted 29 Australian Shepherd dogs from an overcrowded home in Reynoldsburg. One of the dogs in the population had respiratory infection symptoms that were likely related to the Canine Distemper Virus (CDV). Columbus Humane veterinary staff is conducting additional testing to gather more information about the disease impacts on other dogs in the shelter.
Columbus Humane is operating out of an abundance of caution and thoroughly evaluating every dog in the building, even those who did not have contact with the Aussies, to make sure that every dog’s medical needs are met. As a safety precaution and to focus staff efforts on animals already in case, Columbus Humane is temporarily closed to the public today, December 15, and temporarily pausing intake and adoptions for all dogs until further notice.
“Health, safety and wellbeing are top priorities at Columbus Humane. Because we care deeply about the health of all animals, including the pets in our community, we’re taking extra precautions in our process,” said CEO, Rachel D.K. Finney. “I’m confident that our proactive measures will keep pets healthy and safe. Please keep our compassionate, dedicated staff in your thoughts as we work hard to provide great care for all of the animals.”
Canine distemper virus is a highly infectious disease that can be fatal to dogs and is most often transmitted by direct contact with an infected dog. Dogs with CDV often show signs of respiratory disease such as discharge from the nose and eyes and/or neurological symptoms and gastrointestinal issues. It is important to note that CDV is preventable with vaccination and is easily killed by effective cleaning and sanitation protocols, including those used at Columbus Humane.
Stay tuned for more information as it is made available upon additional testing results and dog evaluations.
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About Columbus Humane
Columbus Humane, founded in 1883, provides programs and services for animals and people in Central Ohio. It is our mission to fight animal cruelty, help animals in need and advocate for their well-being. We are a non-profit law enforcement agency investigating reports of animal cruelty abuse and neglect in Franklin County. Columbus Humane investigates more than 6,000 reports of animal cruelty and neglect in Franklin County annually. For more information about Columbus Humane, please visit www.columbushumane.org.
