Canine distemper is on the rise, Austin Animal Center says – here’s how to help

Local cases of canine distemper are on an uptick, according to the Austin Animal Center. Distemper is a deadly disease caused by canine distemper virus, and so far in August, the center has seen 39 positive results from 94 dogs tested.

“As expected, the dogs testing positive are generally under a year old and have only been in the shelter for a few weeks, meaning they didn’t have time to build up appropriate vaccination immunity before being exposed,” said Dr. Debbie Elliott, Austin Animal Center head veterinarian, in a statement. “We are seeing a range of symptoms, from dogs that aren’t showing any signs to dogs developing seizures.”

The virus is spread through close contact with infected animals, usually through respiratory droplets and sometimes through urine or feces, according to the shelter. “Prevention through vaccination is hands down the most effective tool our community has,” Elliott said in a statement. “It is vital that dog owners make sure their dogs are completely vaccinated.”

Austin Animal Center is looking for people to foster or adopt healthy, vaccinated dogs. Adoption fees will be waived, and walk-in foster applicants are welcome at the shelter from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Additionally, dozens of volunteers will be available Saturday for the Clear the Shelters event from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Get more info at austintexas.gov/department/rabies-and-disease-prevention.