16 Dogs Sickened In Parvo, Pneumovirus Outbreak In Douglas Co.

DOUGLASVILLE, GA — The Douglas County Animal Shelter is now under a mandatory quarantine due to a parvovirus and pneumovirus outbreak, county officials said Thursday.

The Georgia Department of Agriculture issued the mandate for the shelter, located at 2171 Mack Road, until further notice, according to Douglas County officials. The shelter voluntarily closed to the public Thursday.

The quarantine came after 13 dogs were sickened by pneumovirus, and three dogs fell ill with parvovirus.

Though the latter tested positive for parvovirus when entering the shelter, county officials said the lack of visible symptoms did not lead to a detection during intake.

"The pneumovirus is significant because it lasts longer, is more contagious, and can sometimes cause pneumonia or other complications," Vanessa Francikowski, Douglas County Animal Services Director, said in a news release.

"While all animals are vaccinated upon intake to prevent disease transmission, some may arrive with unknown vaccination histories and may already be carrying active viruses. While there is currently no vaccine for pneumovirus, we are working closely with our shelter veterinarian and the state veterinarian to remain hyper-vigilant and ensure this virus does not spread into the community."

Cats in the shelter were not impacted by the illness. During the quarantine, county officials said no animals are allowed to enter or leave the shelter, excluding any pets being reclaimed by their owners, as well as cats.

Operations for Douglas County Animal Control will be on an emergency-only basis. Officials said the department will respond to cases involving injured, aggressive or sick animals.

Call (770) 942-5961 for more information.