TEHAMA COUNTY, Calif. — A canine distemper outbreak in the Northstate is putting shelter dogs—especially puppies—at serious risk, according to animal welfare officials in Tehama County.
The Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory has confirmed cases of canine distemper in multiple dogs, including several that tested positive upon arrival at the shelter.
Despite efforts to isolate affected animals and provide supportive care, the severity of the illness led shelter staff to make the difficult decision to humanely euthanize several infected dogs, they said in a press release.
Officials said the decision was made with the utmost concern for the health and safety of the entire shelter population and to prevent the spread of the virus.
The shelter said that to help prevent further spread, several free distemper/parvo vaccine clinics will be held in the coming weeks. Specific dates and locations will be announced soon.
Meanwhile, the Animal Care Center in Red Bluff said it is caring for 70 vaccinated dogs that are cleared for adoption or fostering. Staff said finding homes for those animals is critical to freeing up space and resources to treat sick dogs currently in quarantine.
The Tehama County Animal Services confirmed 15 dogs are currently under quarantine at the shelter, with additional test results pending. Distemper is a highly contagious and potentially fatal virus, particularly dangerous to unvaccinated puppies.
Officials are urging dog owners to check their pets’ vaccination records. The distemper/parvo vaccine is highly effective, and vaccinated adult dogs are considered to be at very low risk—even with direct exposure.
“Fostering right now will literally help us save lives,” a shelter spokesperson said on social media. “The more space we have, the better we can isolate and care for puppies battling this illness.”
For more information on how to adopt, foster, or stay updated on the upcoming vaccine clinics, visit the shelter’s social media page.
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