Hernando County Animal Services Modifies Dog Operations Until Further Notice

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April 26, 2024
Hernando County Animal Services
Modifies Dog Operations Until Further Notice

(Brooksville, FL) – Hernando County Animal Services (HCAS) will be operating under modified dog operations beginning 5:00 pm Friday, April 26, 2024, due to an upper respiratory pathogen suspected to be Canine Pneumovirus amongst our kennel population. The modification will enable isolation of sick and exposed animals to allow the virus to run its course. Hernando County Animal Services is following best practices and taking a proactive approach based on consultation with the leading University of Florida infectious disease expert. Pneumovirus exists in our community and there is currently no vaccination to provide immunity. HCAS currently has 15 dogs showing signs of upper respiratory infection consistent with Pneumovirus. Specimens have been sent out for laboratory testing to confirm the cause of the illness.  Pneumovirus is generally not fatal to dogs, no animals at HCAS have passed away due to this virus. All HCAS dogs will receive supportive care during their symptomatic period. Cat operations will remain as normal.
Modified canine services include:
  • Dog intakes will be limited to essential dogs only including; bite quarantine dogs where the owner requests euthanasia, injured strays, stray dogs exhibiting aggressive and dangerous behavior, pre-approved owner requested euthanasia, and strays posing a risk to public safety. 
  • Sterilization surgeries, will be suspended until the virus clears the shelter population.
Animal Services understands that modified dog operations will create a degree of inconvenience for citizens, we appreciate your patience as we work to protect the health and welfare of our animals and the community. The public will be notified when normal dog operations will resume.
For questions or more information, please contact
Hernando County Animal Services at (352) 796-5062.
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