In response to a discernible uptick in cases of canine influenza, Tampa's Pet Resource Center is taking necessary preventative steps by temporarily shutting its doors. According to an official announcement, this critical move seeks to halt the spread of the highly infectious virus. The facility, found at 440 N. Falkenburg Rd., began its closure period on Wednesday, June 26, with plans to resume operations for cat-related matters starting July 1.
During this interim, the PRC will revert to its standard operating hours, focusing on cat-specific services such as adoptions, drop-offs and medical consults. The shelter's dog population, roughly a count of 290, commenced relocation to a secondary County-owned property starting on June 25, and will remain there until they are declared free of the virus. The PRC has indicated that it won't accept new canines or facilitate dog adoptions until the health of their dogs is assured, projected to be around July 15. However, prospective adopters might still engage in pre-adoption procedures via the shelter's online platform.
Dividing the shelter staff into two exclusive groups serves as a tactical decision to contain the virus, ensuring that those working at the PRC do not cross-contaminate with personnel at the alternate location. The present vacancy of the dog kennels is being used to conduct an in-depth cleaning regiment. It is a methodology facilitated by the absence of the dogs, enabling the use of robust disinfectants that would otherwise be unsuitable.
Often abbreviated as dog flu, canine influenza symptoms range from a consistent cough, nasal discharge to more severe signs like fever and lethargy. While the illness is not typically fatal and most animals recover within a few weeks, some dogs can spread the infection without showing any symptoms. Pet owners are urged to stay vigilant, as the disease can easily propagate in communal settings such as shelters or kennels. Necessary precautions are in full swing at both the PRC and its temporary counterpart, to inhibit any further transmission of the virus. These include stringent sanitation protocols to protect both the animals and the human caretakers involved.
For the interim, residents who come across stray pets are encouraged to utilize local resources such as the Lost and Found Pets of Tampa Bay Facebook page, the Nextdoor App, or by reaching out to Animal Control directly. The PRC is offering provisions to aid local residents who opt to care for stray dogs temporarily during the shelter's inoperative spell. Assistance will be provided on a capacity-constrained basis for sick or injured animals, but also with priority on public safety cases.
