Athens-Clarke County Animal Services Department has extended their moratorium on dog adoptions and owner surrenders until Nov. 8 due to cases of canine parvovirus and space constraints, according to an ACCGov press release.
The pause of these operations has been extended multiple times due to new confirmed cases of parvo, a highly contagious disease that can affect all dogs, especially unvaccinated dogs and puppies under four months old, the release said.
Three stray dogs have tested positive for parvo, with the most recent positive test occurring on Oct. 24.The third dog was located in an off-site housing area at Athens-Ben Epps Airport for incoming stray dogs. All of the dogs were removed from the location while the space was thoroughly cleaned.
Animal Services, located at 125 Buddy Christian Way, will continue to accept stray dogs and allow owner reclaims, as well as continue all cat adoptions and intakes, according to the release. Owners who reclaim dogs will be advised of a potential exposure to parvo and to contact their vet immediately if their dog starts to act ill.
Source: Red and Black