The Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control (DACC) has successfully remedied the distemper outbreak that beleaguered the Lancaster Animal Care Center (ACC) since mid-July. In a recent release, DACC noted that the ACC is on its way back to normal operations following the containment of this highly contagious virus. Canine distemper, which is often lethal for dogs, prompted emergency responses from the shelter to halt its spread. The news of the remediation comes as a relief after months of rigorous efforts made by shelter staff and veterinary professionals.
During the outbreak, with no cure for canine distemper being available, DACC was faced with the grim task of making decisions that are as difficult as they are necessary. Afflicted dogs that were severely ill, or those constituting a risk for infecting others, were humanely euthanized based on the guidance of veterinary experts. These measures were aimed at preventing the virus from wreaking havoc on the broader dog population and potentially new arrivals. According to a statement obtained by the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control, the approach adhered to animal shelter medicine best practices, always striving "to do the most good for the most animals."
In the aftermath, DACC has resumed certain operations such as spay and neuter surgeries, which were suspended as a precaution. The department is actively monitoring the health of shelter dogs, administering booster vaccines when appropriate, and reinforcing biosecurity protocols. Dog owners who adopted pets amidst the surgery hiatus are encouraged to arrange spaying or neutering for their dogs, provided they are symptom-free. These steps are part of their ongoing commitment to animal health and public education around the importance of vaccinations.
DACC Director Marcia Mayeda highlighted the importance of vaccinations in a public statement, urging pet owners to safeguard their animals against such diseases. "Thanks to the tireless efforts of our team and the support of our community, we have made significant progress in rectifying this situation," Mayeda said in the official statement by DACC. The community has been reminded to get their pets vaccinated with the DHPP vaccine and to partake in wellness events hosted by DACC for maintaining the health and safety of their pets.
Finally, DACC made a point to commend its staff and volunteers for maintaining health standards amidst such a trying period. Information about low-cost vaccination clinics and the DACC's Vet@ThePark wellness events can be found on their official site. For interested parties, further details and ways to contribute to the department's ongoing efforts can be explored by visiting the Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation's website.
