Athens-Clarke County Government: Animal Services Adoption Center Not Accepting Incoming Dogs During Dec. 6-19

Press release from the Athens-Clarke County Government:

December 6, 2021

The Animal Services Adoption Center will not accept incoming dogs during December 6-19 due to an increase in kennel cough among dogs currently in the center.

“After speaking with several veterinarians, including Animal Services’ overseeing vet,” says Animal Services Director Kristall Barber, “we have decided to stop dog intakes temporarily to help control the kennel cough bug and stop its spread among our dogs.” 

The measure will allow Animal Services to deep clean the facility and start a new antibiotic for dogs currently in the center to help relieve any current symptoms and prevent other dogs in the center from becoming sick.

Residents will still be able to visit the Adoption Center to view animals and adopt animals during the intake closure. Any residents who adopt a dog during the next two weeks will receive medication to take home with their adopted dog.

According to the American Kennel Club, kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory disease that is highly treatable in most dogs, but can be more severe in puppies younger than six months of age and immunocompromised dogs. It is generally spread through airborne droplets, direct contact, or contaminated surfaces.

Cat intakes and cat adoptions will continue as normal during this time. Although cats can be affected by kennel cough and will be treated as a preventative measure, the cat and dog areas of the shelter are separated from each other. Consulting veterinarians have not recommended closure to cat intakes at this time.

For more information on the Animal Services Adoption Center, including a list of available dogs and cats, visit www.accgov.com/adoptioncenter or call 706-613-3540. 

This press release was produced by the Athens-Clarke County Government. The views expressed here are the author’s own.