Dozens Of Dogs Threatened By Canine Flu Need Homes, Fosters In Philly

PHILADELPHIA — Dozens of large dogs in the care of the Animal Care and Control Team Philadelphia are in need of forever homes or foster homes as they are threatened by canine illnesses.

ACCT Philly is looking to find placement for more than 70 dog by Monday.

The push is caused by a rapid increase in canine flu cases in the community and in dogs at the shelter. These dogs are also threatened by another respiratory virus called pneumovirus.

Both viruses spread very quickly, according to ACCT.

ACCT is asking for the community’s help as it has to create a second shelter temporarily to house dogs exposed to canine flu for up to a month. The temporary space is only able to accommodate 50 dogs.

ACCT is housing 120 dogs at the moment, meaning 70 need at least temporary homes, but ideally forever homes.

More than 70 dogs need placement by Monday, the group said.

The organization is seeking individuals who can foster a large dog (over 40 pounds) for a month, and ideally don’t have another dog. Those who foster for a month will receive get $400 Visa gift card at the end of the month.

Anyone interested in fostering a dog can learn more online here.

All adoption fees have been waived for dogs 40 pounds or heavier now through Sunday, April 23.

Adoptable dogs are fully vaccinated, microchipped and spayed/neutered, and adopters will receive a free bag of food, a free vet exam and voucher for $250 of vet services, an offer for discounted pet insurance as well as virtual dog training through GoodPup.

See adoptable dogs online here.

Shelters, boarding facilities and communities nationwide have had to grapple with canine flu over the last several months, ACCT said.

"There is no good time to do something like this, but unfortunately with the number of dogs who are getting sick, we don’t have a humane alternative," ACCT Executive Director Sarah Barnett said. "We continue to be here for the animals most in need in Philadelphia, and while this will be very challenging to pull off, we hope that the community will support us and help make this successful. We need people to foster a large dog for a month, and if they’re not in a position to do so, to make a donation to support this and all of the work that we do. We are the only organization open 365 days a year 24/7, helping almost 16,000 animals each year, and we can only do so with the community’s investment."