SAN DIEGO—A recent uptick in a respiratory virus among shelter dogs has caused the San Diego Humane Society to quarantine affected animals and limit shelter intake until further notice, it was announced Monday.
Testing has confirmed that this condition on the rise in the shelters is canine pneumovirus.
The shelter is currently unable to take in owner-surrendered dogs at any campus location—San Diego, El Cajon, Escondido, and Oceanside—except in cases of emergency that threaten the health of the pet.
“Canine pneumovirus is a relatively new virus and causes symptoms such as coughing, sneezing and nasal discharge,” said Dr. Zarah Hedge, chief medical officer for the shelter. “While most affected animals experience minor cold-like symptoms, a small number of dogs may develop pneumonia….