Dog virus affects Pasco County Animal Services

LAND O’ LAKES, Fla. – Due to the spread of a virus at a Pasco County Animal Services shelter, the company has had to suspend several dog-related activities for at least the next four weeks.

The organization says some animals at its Land O’ Lakes shelter near Dogpatch Lane have been infected with a respiratory disease caused by canine influenza.

“The health and safety of the animals in our care, as well as the people and pets in our community, is and will remain our top priority,” PCAS Director Mike Shumate said in a statement. “We recognize that this suspension of services is an inconvenience to our customers, and we thank you for your understanding.”

Services suspended include dog adoptions, intakes, surgeries and rescue transport.

While the abandonments are ongoing, PCAS says it is ensuring the safety of its dogs through ongoing testing, supportive care and contact with recently adopted dogs and rescued animals.

According to the shelter, canine influenza is difficult to control in kennels and there is a possibility that the disease could spread in the buildings.

PCAS clarifies that cat-related operations are not affected. This includes adoptions, intakes, surgeries or rescue transfers. All pet licenses and owner-requested euthanasia requests are also open.

They ask anyone whose pets are exhibiting symptoms such as sneezing, watery eyes, runny nose and coughing to contact their veterinarian immediately.

Normal operations will resume once veterinarians determine the environment is safe for pets, PCAS said.