APS of Durham

Animal Protection Society of Durham Deals with Distemper Diagnosis

Dog services are paused, but adoptions, intake, and volunteer activities related to cats continue.

Wes Platt

Wes Platt

— 3 min read
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Animal Protection Society of Durham Deals with Distemper Diagnosis
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The Animal Protection Society of Durham on Friday paused most of its dog services after a dog at the shelter tested positive for canine distemper.

"We immediately isolated the dog and began to implement enhanced safety protocols," APS of Durham officials reported in an Instagram post. They've also expanded testing efforts, increased monitoring of dogs in the shelter, and enhanced cleaning and sanitation.

Cat adoptions, intake, and volunteer activities are continuing as normal.

Canine distemper, which spreads through direct contact with infected dogs and contaminated environments, is a highly contagious viral disease. It affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems.

Watch for symptoms such as:

  • Eye or nose discharge
  • Coughing
  • Fever
  • Lethargy
  • Loss of appetite
  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Difficulty walking or loss of coordination
  • Muscle twitching or seizures

Those who may have adopted a dog from APS during the past week are asked to notify their vet and APS at medical@apsofdurham.org if the animals are exhibiting canine distemper symptoms. Do not take the dog back to APS.

"We appreciate your patience and understanding as we prioritize the health and safety of the pets in our care," APS posted.

APS is asking community members to contribute to the Healthy Shelter Fund to help cover the costs of added testing and protection efforts.

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