Hall County Animal Shelter to limit intakes as HVAC work reaches completion

The Hall County Animal Shelter will be limiting intakes to priority calls, which includes animals that are critically injured, pose a threat to public safety or are in extenuating circumstances, until late May, when the HVAC replacement work is slated for completion.

"We've had three confirmed cases of parvo and an increase in kennel cough," said Trey Garcia, director of Animal Services. "While operations wouldn't normally be disrupted by these common shelter ailments, we are limited by the current construction due to the HVAC repair. At the recommendation of Best Friends Animal Society and out of an abundance of caution, we are temporarily limiting our intakes to those animals most in need while construction is completed to mitigate the risk of further spread."

While shelter staff has worked diligently to accommodate the HVAC replacement and associated construction, they have seen an increase in shelter acquired infections, including canine infectious respiratory disease, also known as "kennel cough," and, more recently, parvo.

"Shelters are prone to contagious infections as strays and animals with unknown medical histories are our primary intakes," said Dr. Kathryn Storm, shelter veterinarian. "However, with construction causing us to temporarily close kennel areas and frequently move animals, it is more difficult to isolate cases and exposure throughout the shelter."

While limiting intakes will help prevent new contagions from entering the facility and unvaccinated animals from being infected, staff, volunteers and visitors are being asked to adhere to strict sanitation and biosecurity measures to help prevent further transmission throughout the shelter, and maintain the health and safety of all the animals currently in their care.

The Hall County Animal Shelter remains open for adoptions Tuesday - Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and interested adopters can view available animals any time at hallcounty.org.

While all adoptable animals receive a full medical checkup and are fully vaccinated against common shelter ailments, recent adopters concerned about the health of their new pet are encouraged to reach out to shelter medical staff during business hours with any questions at 678-450-1587.