MIDLAND ANIMAL SERVICES ANNOUNCES DISTEMPER OUTBREAK IN SHELTER

(March 26, 2024)

MIDLAND, TEXAS -- Midland Animal Services is issuing a public health notice regarding a confirmed outbreak of canine distemper within our shelter. In response to this outbreak, we are taking immediate and decisive actions to ensure the health and safety of all animals in our care and the community.

Those actions include the following request to the public regarding strays:

“Midland Animal Services is asking all residents of Midland to refrain from picking up stray dogs and bringing them to the shelter for drop-off. If you encounter a stray dog, please do not attempt to capture or transport the animal. Instead, please just note the nearest street sign or identifying business and immediately contact Midland Animal Services with the location and a general description of the animal, including color, size and whether it is wearing a collar. Officers will attempt to return the animals to their home in the field, so they are less likely to enter the facility.”

 Important Measures and Current Operations:

• Temporary Suspension of Dog Adoptions: Effective immediately, we regret to inform the public that dog adoptions will be temporarily suspended until further notice. This precautionary measure is necessary to prevent the further spread of the virus and allow our team to focus on the care and treatment of affected animals.
• Cat Adoptions Continue: We are pleased to confirm that cat adoptions will proceed as usual. Our facilities for cats are separate from those for dogs, and at this time, there is no indication of any health concern affecting our feline friends.

Additional Guidance for Handling Stray Animals:

• Microchip Scanning: Please bring the animal to a local veterinarian or a pet supply store equipped with a microchip scanner to help reunite them with their owners.
• Temporary Housing: If possible, please consider temporarily housing the stray to reduce the risk of disease transmission and provide a safe refuge while efforts are made to locate its owner.
• Contacting Midland Animal Services: If no other options are available and you cannot safely care for the animal, please get in touch with Midland Animal Services for assistance. While we are taking in animals when necessary, please remember that bringing a stray into our facility during this outbreak poses a health risk to the animal.

Why This Measure is Necessary:

Canine distemper is a highly contagious viral disease with serious health implications for dogs. The virus attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems of dogs. Puppies and dogs most often become infected through airborne exposure to the virus from an infected dog or wild animal. By limiting the intake of stray dogs and temporarily halting dog adoption, we aim to contain the outbreak and protect both the animals in our community and those in our care.

 Our Commitment:

Midland Animal Services is committed to resolving this situation quickly and safely. Our team is working tirelessly to provide the necessary medical care to affected animals and to implement rigorous sanitation measures to prevent the spread of the virus. 

The City of Midland announced on Monday changes to the shelter schedule that – when implemented -- will allow Midland Animal Services more opportunities for deep cleaning. 

About Midland Animal Services:

Midland Animal Services is dedicated to promoting animal welfare and public safety through sheltering, pet adoption, education, and community outreach. Our mission is to provide a safe, compassionate, and healthy environment for the animals in our care.

We understand the impact of these temporary measures on our community and appreciate the public’s cooperation and understanding. Every effort made by residents significantly contributes to the overall welfare of our animal population and the safety of our community.

For updates, more information, or assistance, please feel free to contact Midland Animal Services directly at 432-685-7420. Your efforts and compassion during this challenging time are truly appreciated.

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