After a battle with canine distemper, the Ellis County SPCA of Texas reopened Tuesday.
Beginning August 9, the shelter will resume its normal hours: Tuesday – Saturday, noon – 6 p.m.
“We’re just excited that things are moving and we have animals that are going to be going home soon,” Maura Davies, SPCA of Texas vice president of marketing and communications, told Waxahachie 360.
The shelter will not at this time accept strays or dogs that have not already been with SPCA but are continuing adoption.
On Saturday, August 13, the shelter and the sheriff’s office will cohost a pet vaccination clinic at no charge. The event will take place at the Ellis County Expo Center from 8 a.m. to noon. Pets whose owners attend the event at 2300 US 287 in Waxahachie will be offered Rabies, DAPPv, and F.V.R.C.P. vaccinations, plus microchips.
The vaccine for distemper is 99% effective, but if the shelter takes in unvaccinated dogs, they are at a much higher risk of getting the virus. Dogs available for adoption through SPCA have all received vaccinations.
Distemper may affect a dog’s respiratory, gastrointestinal, and central nervous systems. The disease can be fatal in dogs with weaker immune systems.
Dallas’ Myron K. Martin Spay/Neuter and Wellness Clinic and Veterinary Care Clinic and the Russell E. Dealey Animal Rescue Center are still closed and will remain so until further notice.
Several sites, including Ellis County, closed on June 8 when dogs began testing positive for distemper.
