TAMPA, Fla. – Hillsborough County’s Pet Resource Center (PRC) has resumed operations this week with the return of 60 dogs following a recent dog flu outbreak that prompted a temporary closure. The facility, which experienced its first flu outbreak since 2018, underwent extensive cleaning and disinfection.
“We do have ‘I’m back!’ stickers on all of the dogs that are returned at PRC right now and available for adoption,” said Chelsea Waldeck, division manager of PRC.
Meanwhile, offsite locations caring for affected dogs are reporting progress. “Everybody offsite is doing well. We are seeing more dogs come down with the illness, which is what we were hoping for, because we want them to catch it, be able to shed it, and then be done with it and have the antibodies,” Waldeck explained.
The Humane Society of Tampa Bay (HSTB), also managing a dog flu outbreak, shared positive developments. “We are seeing some improvements. The dogs have received treatment, and they are doing better,” remarked Regan Blessinger, marketing and content manager for HSTB.
Sick dogs at HSTB are receiving intensive care and are separated from healthy dogs to prevent further spread at their Armenia Ave. facility. To boost community immunity, HSTB is offering $20 dog flu vaccines, especially recommended for dogs frequenting parks, daycares, or neighborhoods.
As the Fourth of July approaches, both organizations emphasize they are not accepting new dogs currently. “If you see a dog, especially after fireworks, they’ve probably run away. They’re probably very scared,” Waldeck advised. “We’re asking that if anybody finds a stray dog to go ahead and hold on to that dog.”
PRC plans to resume accepting new dogs on July 15, with HSTB following on July 13. “Hold on to them,” urged Blessinger. “We are offering free food and some supplies for people who find stray dogs.”
Despite their intake limitations, both shelters continue to facilitate adoptions for healthy dogs.
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