City of Midland confirms ‘significant’ distemper outbreak, sets deadline for rescue

MIDLAND, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- The Midland Animal Shelter announced Thursday that it has confirmed a “significant” Canine Distemper Virus outbreak among its canine population following extensive testing of 111 dogs.

City leaders said the results of those tests revealed a broad exposure across the facility, with varying levels of presence:

• 30 dogs show a high presence of CDV RNA, indicating active infections
• 42 dogs were found with a medium presence of the virus
• 22 dogs have low levels of the virus
• 17 dogs tested negative; however, 11 are in close quarters with kennelmates that tested positive, raising concerns about potential undetected exposure

What is Canine Distemper?

Canine Distemper is a viral illness in dogs marked by symptoms ranging from respiratory issues to neurological complications. The virus is airborne and carries the potential for long-term viral shedding, even post recovery; meaning that there is a high likelihood that all kennels within the Midland facility have been exposed to some extent.

Although the virus poses no risk to humans, its high mortality rate in dogs could necessitate the euthanasia of severely infected animals to mitigate prolonged virus shedding and further contagion.

Throughout this outbreak, animal shelter staff said they have maintained close consultations with key partners to ensure the most effective treatment protocols, including advice on vaccination protocols, lab testing, and consultations with local veterinarians.

In response to the outbreak, Animal Services collaborated with local organizations aimed at keeping these dogs safe; non-profits throughout the Basin have been working with shelter staff to find immediate placement for the dogs in environments that can provide necessary medical care and reduce the burden on City facilities to prevent further spread.

“As we continue to address the Canine Distemper Virus outbreak within Midland Animal Shelter, we have set a deadline for our partner organizations,” a shelter spokesperson said. “We are asking all collaborating rescues and shelters to coordinate and facilitate the transfer of any animals they can accommodate by the end of business day this Saturday. This effort ensures that as many dogs as possible receive the necessary care and a chance for survival in a new environment.”

Unfortunately, City leaders said any dogs remaining in the facility and are severely affected by the virus, with no viable options for transfer, will be euthanized on Sunday.

“This difficult decision comes as a last resort in our efforts to control the…spread and prevent further suffering,” the shelter said.

By next Monday, the Midland Animal Shelter will be closed to the public through Wednesday for cleaning and disinfecting. Shelter staff said the cleaning process will remove the virus from the facility and ensure that the shelter is safe to reopen on Thursday.

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