Dog Flu Outbreak Forces Closure of Wake County Animal Center
RALEIGH, N.C. – In response to a recent outbreak of canine influenza, the Wake County Animal Center will be closing its doors to the public for at least 35 days, starting Friday, October 6. This decision comes after the unfortunate deaths of three dogs at the shelter due to the spread of the dog flu.
The closure is aimed at preventing further cases and containing the illness. Jennifer Federico, DVM and Director of the Wake County Animal Center, explained, “We cannot take animals in this facility while we’re on lockdown.”
The center will also cease accepting animals and halt other services temporarily to prevent new cases from emerging. Currently, there are 435 animals being cared for between the shelter and foster care.
Wake County Commissioner Cheryl Stallings expressed the difficulty of the situation, stating, “As our community knows all too well, the number of pets coming to us has been pushing our shelter past capacity for well over a year – and unfortunately, it’s that situation – tons of dogs living together in one space – that’s the perfect breeding ground for viruses like this.”
Since September 15, approximately 61 dogs have been diagnosed with upper respiratory infections, a significantly higher number than usual. Dr. Federico emphasized the rapid spread of the illness, mentioning that many dogs are not immune to it as vaccination rates are low.
Cases of dog flu have been on the rise across North Carolina, particularly in dogs that have been in boarding or day care facilities. Veterinarian Dr. Bradley Krohn shared warning signs for dog owners to watch out for, such as coughing, nasal discharge, fever, lethargy, and loss of appetite.
While most dogs recover within two to three weeks, some can experience secondary infections leading to pneumonia and even death. The virus spreads through respiratory droplets when dogs cough or sneeze, and there have been cases of transmission to cats.
As the staff at the Wake County Animal Center works to quarantine, treat, and care for the affected animals, certain services will be affected. Adoptions of all pets, including dogs, cats, and other small animals, will be paused. The October Pit Bull adoption special has also been canceled. Community Pet Days and owner surrenders will not be allowed during the closure.
Animal Control agencies will continue to respond to emergency animal calls, but they will not pick up strays or owner surrenders in the field. Pets on quarantine following bite incidents will need to be quarantined in veterinary offices or private homes instead.
It is important for pet owners to be vigilant and take necessary precautions to prevent the further spread of dog flu. Vaccination and practicing good hygiene for pets are key in preventing and minimizing the impact of this illness.