ROSWELL, N.M. (KRQE) — The Roswell Animal Services facility announced on Wednesday it will re-open on Friday after being deep cleaned. The organization says canine distemper was brought into the facility at 705 East McGaffey St. by one or more dogs from outside.
Full operations, including carrying out adoptions, accepting animals, and sending animal control officers to service calls, are expected to resume once that deep cleaning is finished. The facility has been closed since March 7.
According to the American Veterinary Association, canine distemper is a contagious and serious disease that all dogs are at risk for. This virus attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. As the virus spreads, dogs may display these symptoms:
- Discharge from the eyes and nose
- Fever
- Coughing
- Lethargy
- Reduced appetite
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
The virus is typically spread through airborne exposure, like sneezing, coughing, or barking. This can come from an infected dog or a wild animal. It can also be spread through shared food and water bowls.