Toccoa-Stephens Co. Humane Shelter Closed to Dog Intakes For Two Weeks

The Georgia Department of Agriculture has put a 14-day quarantine in effect for three areas of the Toccoa-Stephens County Humane Shelter because of Parvovirus.

Shelter Director Jeff Roberts said seven puppies that were brought into the shelter have tested positive for the K-9 Parvovirus and had to be euthanized.

“That prohibits our ability to take in any more dogs at this time,” said Roberts. “The Department of Ag has put a 14-day quarantine where no animals can go in and out of those rooms during those 14 days.”

Because three rooms have been quarantined, Roberts says the shelter is prevented from having space to taken in any dogs until March 10.

Roberts said that Parvovirus is something that must be treated seriously.

“Parvovirus is present throughout the community and when animals are brought in, they may be in the incubation stage of this virus and once they break with it, then it is a very deadly disease for animals and potentially very contagious for other animals in that area,” said Roberts.

He went on to say that animal shelters are very familiar with it.

“If you run a shelter, you are going to have to deal with it from time to time,” said Roberts.

Roberts said the shelter can continue to accept stray and owner surrender cats.

Also, Roberts said the shelter remains open for adoptions and there are 100 dogs and cats that are available for adoption.