INDIANAPOLIS — Indianapolis Animal Care Services (IACS) will continue its limited intake of animals after a dog suddenly and unexpectedly died less than 24 hours after first showing signs of illness, according to the shelter.
IACS PIO Colleen Walker said after sending samples for testing last week, the results came back this weekend as Canine Infectious Respiratory Diseases Complex (CIRCD), which is commonly known as kennel cough.
Walker said one other dog started showing symptoms, so IACS took the dog to Noah's Hospital. The dog is currently "under isolation" and is being provided the necessary care.
The shelter said they are currently working to prevent any additional spread of kennel cough.
The shelter also said any dogs that are coughing, sneezing or showing any signs of respiratory illness will be isolated, treated and closely monitored.
Despite this situation, animals are still eligible for adoption. The shelter still has 192 dogs and 25 cats available for adoption.
"Each adoption reduces overcrowding, which can reduce the spread of potential diseases and bacteria between animals," Walker said.
If you are interested, IACS said all visitors will receive information about the shelter's current situation before they decide to adopt.
"IACS will resume intake of animals in non-emergency situations once isolation and cleaning protocols have ensured the illness is not spreading and symptoms are not present within the shelter population," Walker said. "In the meantime, the shelter will still accept animals that have been injured or present a public safety risk."
IACS is located at 2600 S. Harding St., and will be open for adoptions daily from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.