City of Austin

Temporary operational adjustments support dog recovery, limit spread, and keep shelter services moving.

Austin, TX - Austin Animal Services has confirmed three cases of Canine Pneumovirus, a not fatal, but highly contagious upper respiratory virus that affects only dogs. Several other dogs are currently showing respiratory symptoms. The virus does not infect cats or humans; however, people can carry the virus on their hands and clothing and unintentionally spread it between dogs. Like viral infections in humans, respiratory viruses in animals can be difficult to prevent, which is why the department is temporarily adjusting shelter operations as a precaution. The department’s top priority is keeping the animals in its care safe and healthy.

Austin Animal Services has a response plan in place and is implementing additional measures to prevent further spread of illness, including quarantining dogs as needed and allowing sick dogs time to recover. The shelter is working closely with area partners, including Austin Humane Society and Austin Pets Alive!, who have stepped in to transfer dogs and help clear space on campus to support improved quarantine conditions. These temporary operational changes are expected to remain in place until early January, with updates provided to the public as the situation evolves.

“Our staff is fully committed to ensuring every dog receives the care and attention they need during this time,” said Interim Director Rolando Fernandez. “We remain responsive to our community and are grateful to our partners and us create the best possible conditions for the dogs in our care.”

Dog adoptions will continue but are limited to households that do not have other dogs. Dog intake is further restricted and will be accepted only in extreme emergency situations Dog intake is further restricted and will be accepted only in extreme emergency situations. All appointments, including pet meet and greets and animal intake appointments, are being rescheduled for January. Volunteer access to dogs at the facility will be limited, though volunteers are encouraged to assist in other areas of the shelter.

Dog walking and playgroups were temporarily paused as part of the response. Modified dog walking is expected to resume later this week as conditions allow.

Shelter operations for cats are not affected by this virus. Cat adoptions will continue as usual, and cat surgeries will proceed as scheduled.

Adopters and foster homes without other dogs are urgently needed to help create space for dogs that need to isolate and recover. Dogs recovering from illness often improve more quickly in home environments with reduced stress and increased one-on-one care. The shelter also welcomes donations of sheets, blankets of all sizes, and towels for kennel bedding, as well as homemade food enrichment treats to provide mental stimulation for dogs during recovery.

Austin Animal Services appreciates the community’s patience, partnership, and continued support as it takes these necessary steps to protect shelter animals and limit the spread of illness.

About the Animal Services Office
The City of Austin Animal Services Office operates the Austin Animal Center, and is the municipal shelter for the City of Austin and unincorporated Travis County. Austin Animal Center provides shelter to more than 11,000 animals annually and has positive outcomes for 95% of all animals. Our goal is to keep pets with their families and in their communities, provide a safe place for homeless animals, promote responsible pet ownership, and preserve the human-animal bond.

 

# # #