DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ga. — The Georgia Department of Agriculture has placed the Douglas County Animal Shelter under a mandatory quarantine.
This comes after there was a pneumonia outbreak among 14 dogs, which is slightly less than 10% of the dog population at the facility, according to a release by the Douglas County Animal Shelter. No cats have been affected so far and the shelter staff is in good health.
The order comes after the shelter voluntarily closed on Tuesday in an effort to prevent the disease from spreading further. The quarantine is effective immediately and is expected to last 14 days.
During this time, the shelter will provide necessary medical attention to the animals with the disease while adhering to strict protocols to contain the spread of pneumonia.
Douglas County Animal Services Director Vanessa Francikowski said the top priority is the animals' health.
"We are taking swift and comprehensive action to address this outbreak and prevent further spread within the shelter," Francikowski said. "We are also working in unison with our shelter veterinarian and state veterinarian to address any further health concerns that may arise."
The shelter will remain closed to the public. No animals can enter or leave except for those being reclaimed, according to the release. Animal Control will also be operating on an emergency-only basis, which means that only injured, aggressive or cruelty cases will be accepted.
In the meantime, the Douglas County Animal Shelter said it is in urgent need of the following supplies:
- Blankets
- Durable Dog Toys (Nyla Bones, Chews)
- Stuffed toys (Kongs, Chew Kings)
- Paper products: Bags, small cardboard boxes, empty toilet paper and paper towel rolls
- Calming oil or treats
- Xylitol-free peanut butter
The animal shelter said donations can be dropped off at the front door of the shelter, which is located at 2171 Mack Road in Douglasville, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Online donations can also be made through the Douglas County website. Volunteers are also appreciated to help with washing blankets and dishes to prepare enrichment items.
