Beach animal shelter partially reopens after parvo outbreak

VIRGINIA BEACH

The city’s Bureau of Animal Control has reopened a section of its dog kennels to limited public access followings its closure in March because of a parvovirus outbreak.

In March, the shelter was closed for cleaning and disinfection after an impounded dog died of parvovirus.

The shelter's staff thought the outbreak began Feb. 16 when a Pomeranian was impounded. A few days later, staff noticed that the dog showed signs and symptoms of the highly contagious virus, which attacks the intestines, a police news release said. The dog was immediately taken to a veterinarian, where it died.

Seven other dogs, all unclaimed by their owners, tested positive for parvo and were euthanized. Another seven dogs, again unclaimed by their owners, also were euthanized because of their risk of exposure to the virus, the release said. Four of those dogs probably would have been euthanized because of behavioral issues.

At the time, it was believed that the facility would reopen in a few weeks, but more than a month has passed.

During that time, a state veterinarian visited the site to review actions taken by the city in response to the outbreak and offer suggestions. As a result of implementing the state’s recommendations, a portion of the dog kennels may reopen to the public, according to a news release issued by the city today.

The animal control facility is expected to resume normal operations in the very near future, the news release said.

Cat adoptions have not been affected by the dog kennel closures.