The San Diego Humane Society (SDHS) is currently grappling with a pneumonia outbreak among the canine residents of its shelters, leading to a public call for assistance. With an average of nearly 800 dogs in care per day throughout August, the shelters face the double challenge of overcrowding and increased health risks for the animals, as detailed by the San Diego Humane Society.
SDHS officials have explained that the congestion within their facilities makes it easier for diseases like pneumonia, which can stem from viral and bacterial infections, to spread among the dogs. According to a press release by the San Diego Humane Society, to help manage this situation, officials are urging the community to adopt, foster, and consider alternative rehoming methods to reduce shelter populations. Additionally, SDHS is temporarily halting owner surrenders of dogs from Sept. 3-17 to mitigate the spread of illness.
"While dogs in the general population are at low risk, pet parents should keep their dogs up to date on Bordetella and Parainfluenza vaccines," Dr. Zarah Hedge, San Diego Humane Society Chief Medical Officer, stated, as per SDHS press release. To alleviate some pressure, SDHS offers discounted and waived adoption fees during their "Clear the Shelters" event, running through Sept. 10. With this initiative, they aim to find homes for as many dogs as possible, thus creating much-needed space in the shelters.