Distempter case reported at Horry County Animal Shelter

CONWAY - Horry County officials say they were notified Thursday afternoon that a puppy at the county’s animal shelter tested positive for distemper.

According to a news release, the county’s Public Safety Department was notified at 3:30 p.m. Thursday by Clemson Veterinary Diagnostic Testing Center that a puppy at the shelter tested positive for the diseases.

Three puppies were picked up by animal control on March 20 and were immediately vaccinated with the new Recombitek DHHP, Bordatella and Pyrantel Pamoate for parasites as per the new protocol at the shelter, the release said. On March 23, one of the puppies, which was approximately 6-7 weeks old, started exhibiting signs of distemper and was immediately isolated. The puppy’s condition was closely monitored and progressively deteriorated. On March 30 the puppy was euthanized and samples were sent to Clemson Veterinary Diagnostic Testing Center. 

The appropriate disinfecting procedures have taken place and the shelter’s veterinarian has examined the other two puppies and none are exhibiting any signs of distemper, the release said.

The incident was immediately identified by staff and the correct protocols were followed, so county officials say the shelter is and will continue to operate under normal conditions

The shelter closed for a month on Dec. 8, 2008 after the deadly and highly contagious virus infected dozens of animals adopted from the shelter and caused more than 100 dogs to be euthanized.