Richmond, VA – The Norfolk SPCA has temporarily suspended dog adoptions due to a recent outbreak of Upper Respiratory Infection (URI) among its canine residents. The shelter is taking precautionary measures to prevent further spread of the highly contagious illness and to ensure the health and safety of its animals.
According to the shelter’s Community Engagement Manager, Tammy Lindquist, URI is a common concern in environments where animals are in close quarters, such as daycares, boarding kennels, and shelters. The infection spreads rapidly through direct contact and airborne particles, affecting dogs with symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, and fever.
“It’s kind of like being in an elementary school and kindergarten,” Lindquist explained. “One dog gets it, and it quickly spreads to others.”
In response to the outbreak, the SPCA has implemented strict measures, including deep-cleaning its facilities and providing all affected dogs with medical care and preventative treatments. Despite these efforts, the shelter has decided to halt all dog adoptions for the time being to ensure that the illness does not spread further.
While dog adoptions are on pause, the SPCA is still offering other animals for adoption, including cats and kittens that have not been affected by the infection. The shelter’s vaccine clinic is also still operational.
“We are being very cautious right now,” Lindquist said. “Our goal is to make sure our animals stay healthy and are ready for adoption once this situation is under control.”
In addition to adoption services, the SPCA is calling on the community for support. The shelter is in urgent need of towel donations, which are used to help clean and care for the animals. They are also seeking financial contributions to cover the costs of additional medications and treatments for the sick dogs.
“This is an unexpected expense at the end of the year, and we really need the community’s help,” Lindquist added. “Any support, whether it’s donating towels or making a financial contribution, will make a big difference in helping us care for the animals during this challenging time.”
The Norfolk SPCA remains committed to finding forever homes for its animals and ensuring that they receive the best possible care during the outbreak. While dog adoptions are currently suspended, the shelter is hopeful that with the community’s support, it will soon be able to resume its adoption programs.
