Paris Animal Shelter closes due to distemper outbreak
File / eExtra News
The Paris Animal Shelter is officially closed to new intakes due to a distemper outbreak in the shelter. It will be closed for at least two weeks.
“According to our Veterinarian, the only way to regain control of the outbreak is to close the shelter for at least two weeks, vaccinate all animals in the shelter and euthanize any who show signs and symptoms of the disease,” said Services Supervisor Captain John T. Bull.
Distemper is an easily spread canine illness, especially for animals in a confined environment. Clinically, canine distemper is characterized by:
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a diphasic fever
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leukopenia
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GI and respiratory catarrh, and
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frequently, pneumonic and neurologic complications.
Bull went on to say that, although the Lamar County Humane Association vaccinates the animals upon entry to the shelter, it is presumed these animals are becoming infected before the immunization can take effect.
Until Sept. 12, the shelter will no longer accept new animals and will be performing a deep clean while officials continue to monitor the outbreak.