07/29/2025
We are closely monitoring a canine distemper outbreak at the Pell City Animal Shelter. Canine distemper is a virus that causes respiratory and GI signs, as well a neurological symptoms. It can affect dogs of all ages and is often times fatal. The virus affects dogs but can affect raccoons, foxes, and skunks.
There is a vaccination that is highly effective so if your dogs haven't been vaccinated with a Distemper/Parvo vaccination from a veterinarian in the last couple years (or received their boosters if they are puppies) please consider updating those vaccines to protect your dogs and others from distemper. This vaccine isn't required by law so if you aren't sure if your dog is up to date, call your veterinarian and they can look!
Also, to help prevent the spread- please Spay and Neuter your pets not intended for breeding to reduce the unwanted and stray dog population! The shelters are all at capacity, so please do your part by spaying/neutering!