MOBILE, Ala. (WPMI) Nineteen dogs are up for adoption at the Mobile County Animal Shelter after nearly 50 dogs were put down in a mass euthanization.
One of those dogs was brought to the shelter showing signs of distemper. It is a highly contagious disease similar to measles in humans.
Local 15 spoke with shelter officials about tips on how to keep your pets safe from the airborne disease.
Supervisor Andrew Stubbs stated if your pet is not eating or drinking, it may be a sign it is suffering from Distemper. "Get them to a vet, so a vet can give them and exam," said Stubbs.
He added, "One of the main things is runny nose, eye discharge, yellow discharge and seizure."
Stubbs mentioned the disease can be picked up from anywhere, so you should keep a close on eye on your pets when out in public.
"If you let your animals out to use the restroom on a leash or if they are mingling with dogs who don't have owners, they can pick it up," said Stubbs.
Officials urge people who like to rescue stray dogs to stay away and call the animal shelter to come pick them up.
"They could possibly spread them to their own animals by putting them in their cars basically handling them with their hands," Stubbs stated.
It can take up to 12 to 14 days before your pet may display symptoms of distemper. If you notice that your pet showing signs, officials encourage you to sterilize everything in your home with hot water and bleach.
They state you should isolate your pet until you can get them to a veterinarian.
