Oklahoma City Animal Shelter closes a third time after illness resurges

The Oklahoma City Animal Shelter has closed to the public for the third time this year after another outbreak of an upper respiratory infection that has affected the dog population.

Canine flu and strep zoo have currently infected about 65 dogs, and this year, five dogs have died of infection, according to a news release.

The shelter first closed on March 29 this year after several dogs became ill with canine flu and strep zoo. After reopening on May 12, the shelter closed again June 3 to bolster containment measures and resumed operations on July 21.

The closure aims to prevent the spread of infection within the shelter but also to other dogs in the metro area.

Superintendent Jon Gary of OKC Animal Welfare has indicated that additional closures might be necessary until immunity is built up among the canine community.

Overwhelmed and isolated: Dog flu outbreak causes crowding, boost in euthanasia at OKC shelter

What the OKC Animal Shelter closure means for the public and recently adopted pets

During this closure, the shelter will continue to accept animals that are sick, injured or pose a threat to the community. Currently, the shelter houses around 425 dogs.

Individuals who recently adopted dogs from the shelter are advised to closely monitor their pets for any upper respiratory symptoms, such as coughing and a runny nose. If any of these symptoms develop, seek medical advice from a veterinarian.

Residents who have lost pets can go to okc.gov/animalwelfare to search for their beloved companions. Owners can reclaim their pets if they are currently in the shelter's care.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: OKC Animal Shelter closes to prevent respiratory infection, canine flu