The Athens County Dog Shelter will be closed for 72 hours after taking in a stray that could have a possibly lethal virus.
The Athens County Sheriff’s Office is not letting any dogs leave or enter as a precaution. The shelter is also closed for visitation of dogs in the kennel.
While it is not confirmed, the veterinarian is concerned that a stray could have canine distemper virus, Ryan Gillette, an Athens County Sheriff’s detective, said.
Canine distemper virus’ symptoms include mucus in the eyes, discharge from the nose and swelling in the spine and brain, Gillette said. It can be avoided with a vaccine.
If there is an issue where a stray dog needs to be dealt with, the dog should not be brought into the shelter, according to a Facebook post from the sheriff’s office.
Gillette believes that he will find the results out on Friday or Saturday.
