Henderson animal shelter pauses dog adoptions after confirmed case of respiratory virus

LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — The City of Henderson Animal Care and Control decided to modify operations at the Henderson Animal Shelter after a dog contracted a contagious respiratory virus.

According to a release, this is the first confirmed case of Canine Pneumovirus at the Henderson Animal Shelter. Pneumovirus is a contagious respiratory virus that can progress to pneumonia. Symptoms of the virus include coughing, sneezing, and nasal discharge.

There is currently no vaccine for the virus.

“Canine Pneumovirus is one of many contagious diseases in the Canine Infectious Respiratory
Disease (CIRD) group,” Veterinarian at Henderson Animal Shelter Dr. Tessa Kronbetter said. “Our primary focus is identifying and treating potential cases while reducing exposure to other animals.”

In addition to the confirmed case, several other dogs are suspected to have the virus as well, based on symptoms.

To isolate the exposed population of dogs and minimize the risk of healthy dogs being exposed, Animal Care and Control is temporarily ceasing the intake of relinquished pets and closing dog adoptions.

Cat and other animal adoptions are still open to the public, the release said.

“This is a big move for us, and not one that we take lightly,” Animal Control Administrator Danielle Harney said. “We feel this change to operations is necessary to preserve the health of the more than 75 dogs we have here currently and prevent further spread of the virus. We need to be transparent, and we hope our community can empathize with the difficult position we’re in.”

Animal Control warns pet owners to be mindful of Pneumovirus symptoms and to speak with their veterinarians if their dog appears to be sick.

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