Halifax Humane Society is temporarily adjusting dog intake and adoption procedures in response to a suspected outbreak of Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRDC), a common group of contagious canine upper respiratory illnesses sometimes referred to as “kennel cough.”
Several dogs in our shelter population are currently showing symptoms consistent with CIRDC. Diagnostic testing is underway to identify the specific pathogens involved. Out of an abundance of caution, HHS is implementing immediate operational changes to limit the risk of further spread among dogs in our care and within the community.
“Our veterinary team is actively managing this situation with professionalism and care,” said Allison Bliss, DVM, MPH, Director of Shelter Medicine at Halifax Humane Society. “CIRDC is a common respiratory illness in shelter environments, and we are following established veterinary protocols to contain the illness, treat affected animals, and protect the broader dog population.”
CIRDC poses no risk to people or cats, and all affected dogs are receiving appropriate medical care. The majority of dogs who develop respiratory illness recover fully with supportive treatment.
Temporary Operational Changes
Dog Intake
Intake of dogs is currently limited to medical emergencies. Owner surrenders will only be accepted for end-of-life humane euthanasia during this period.
Dog Adoptions
Dogs who have completed treatment for CIRDC and are medically cleared by the veterinary team will be available for adoption. Dog adoptions are temporarily paused for families who already own dogs or live in multi-dog environments (such as apartments or households with close neighboring pets) to reduce the risk of spreading illness to other dogs in the community.
Unavailable Dogs
Dogs who are currently undergoing treatment or have been recently exposed will be able to meet potential adopters, but cannot complete the adoption process until medically cleared. Our team is happy to answer any questions you may have and assist you through the introduction process.
Dogs displaying clinical signs of respiratory illness are being closely monitored and treated with supportive care and medications as recommended by veterinary staff. Isolation protocols and enhanced sanitation procedures have been implemented to minimize transmission.
“We are committed to the health and safety of the animals in our care and to the pet families in our community,” said Sean Hawkins, CAWA, CFRE, CEO of Halifax Humane Society. “These temporary precautions are designed to stop the spread of respiratory illness and ensure that we emerge from this situation with healthier pets and continued public trust.”
Shelter Care and Medical Plan
Dogs displaying clinical signs of respiratory illness are being closely monitored and treated with supportive care and medications as recommended by veterinary staff. Isolation protocols and enhanced sanitation procedures have been implemented to minimize transmission.
“We are committed to the health and safety of the animals in our care and to the pet families in our community,” said Sean Hawkins, CAWA, CFRE, CEO of Halifax Humane Society. “These temporary precautions are designed to stop the spread of respiratory illness and ensure that we emerge from this situation with healthier pets and continued public trust.”
Transparency and Communication
Halifax Humane Society is notifying recent dog adopters and community partners to ensure transparency and to provide guidance on monitoring pets for respiratory symptoms. Local government and animal control partners have also been briefed on the temporary intake adjustments.
Halifax Humane Society anticipates resuming normal dog intake and adoption operations within approximately two weeks, depending on the progression of the illness within the shelter population. Updates will be provided to the public as the situation evolves.
