Austin Pets Alive! seeks urgent foster homes to halt a dog virus outbreak
Austin Animal Services is temporarily full, prompting them to move about 20 dogs to Austin Pets Alive! this past Sunday to reduce the risk of exposure.
AUSTIN, Texas — In the wake of a contagious respiratory virus at Austin Animal Services, Austin Pets Alive! is appealing for more foster and adoptive homes for dogs. The illness, a non-fatal canine virus identified as pneumovirus, resembles a common cold with symptoms such as runny nose, coughing, and occasionally a fever. While the virus only affects dogs directly, humans can carry it on their hands or clothing.
The first confirmed case at Austin Animal Services emerged last Wednesday. The shelter currently reports three confirmed infections, with at least 50 additional dogs showing symptoms. Officials note the virus has been spreading quickly across many facilities nationwide.
Due to overcrowding at Austin Animal Services, approximately 20 dogs were relocated to Austin Pets Alive! on Sunday to prevent further exposure.
“Because this virus is highly contagious, we want to prevent its spread into the broader community. At this time, we’re seeking fosters and adopters who don’t have other dogs at home to minimize transmission risk,” explained Elizabeth Ferrer of Austin Animal Services.
Austin Pets Alive! aims to place about 25 to 35 dogs in foster care as soon as possible, with a minimum commitment of three weeks.
“Foster homes are among the most effective tools we have to curb illness spread in shelter settings,” said Jordana Moerbe, medical director at Austin Pets Alive!. “Opening your home temporarily not only protects the dog you foster but also safeguards many others across the network.”
People interested in fostering can visit the shelter’s main location at 1156 West Cesar Chavez St. before 6 p.m. on Sunday or after 12 p.m. on Monday.
Key takeaway: fostering can dramatically reduce shelter transmissions and save more animals from illness and overcrowding. But here’s where it gets controversial: should city shelters rely more on community fostering programs, or should they invest in on-site capacity and rapid vaccination to eliminate outbreaks altogether? Share your thoughts below on how communities can best support shelter animals during health crises.
