Baltimore Animal Shelter Halts Dog Intake Due to Uptick in Highly Contagious Respiratory Illness

The Baltimore Animal Rescue and Care Shelter (BARCS) has paused dog intakes due to a surge in Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRDC), also known as “kennel cough.” Over the past six to eight weeks, cases have risen, with some dogs developing severe symptoms like pneumonia, requiring isolation and treatment. BARCS will reassess intake suspensions in two weeks to prioritize containment and care.

CIRDC, a highly contagious respiratory illness, spreads in environments where dogs congregate, such as shelters and kennels. Symptoms include coughing, lethargy, fever, and labored breathing, with puppies, senior dogs, and immunocompromised pets most at risk. BARCS urges the community to avoid surrendering or bringing in dogs temporarily and suggests proactive measures like updating vaccinations, limiting dog interactions, and consulting vets for symptomatic pets. They also recommend helping lost pets reconnect with owners through flyers, social media, and microchip scanning to ease shelter strain.