TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY, N.C. — An animal shelter in Transylvania County remains under quarantine after being exposed to canine influenza and distemper, officials said Tuesday.

What You Need To Know

  •  A North Carolina animal shelter remains under quarantine 

  •  Staff says the facility was exposed to canine influenza and distemper

  •  The shelter will remain closed through June 5

To limit exposure of canine influenza and distemper, Transylvania County Animal Services said it will extend the current quarantine period that was previously expected to last two weeks.

On May 6 the shelter announced it would not be accepting any canine surrenders or adoptions for a minimum of two weeks "under the guidance of our shelter veterinarian for contagious disease canine quarantine."

The veterinarian is now recommending the quarantine be extended through June 5, officials said.

The closure aims to limit exposures and the outbreak during the quarantine period.

"Our goal is to limit exposure and isolate this outbreak for the safety of our shelter animals, your personal pets and all furry babies in our community," officials said in a release. "Animal Services staff will continue to provide their quality care for quarantined canines at the shelter."

Staff said the exposure was linked to a recent intake.

“Our pets depend on us to keep them safe and healthy. We are urging all dog owners to take immediate precautions against Canine Influenza and Canine Distemper — two serious, contagious diseases that can spread rapidly and lead to severe illness or even death,” officials said.

The shelter is urging residents to keep their pet’s vaccinations up to date and to follow up with a veterinarian about concerns pertaining to their animal’s health.

The shelter said the following symptoms are common signs of infection:

Canine influenza

  • Coughing and nasal discharge
  • Sneezing
  • Lethargy and fever
  • Loss of appetite

Canine distemper

  • Eye/nose discharge
  • Fever and vomiting
  • Coughing and labored breathing
  • Seizures, twitching or paralysis (advanced stages)

If you think your pet has contracted either of these diseases, officials said to contact your veterinarian immediately, isolate your dog from other pets and follow medical advice, quarantine periods and other care instructions.

To help prevent the spread of such diseases, officials recommend the following:

  • Vaccinate your dog against canine influenza and distemper
  • Avoid public dog areas during outbreaks or if your pet is not vaccinated
  • Keep sick dogs at home and separated from others
  • Disinfect leashes, bowls and bedding frequently