Outbreak of Distemper at Miami Animal Shelter

MIAMI (AP) — Officials at the Miami-Dade animal shelter say 23 dogs have come down with distemper.

Animal Services Chief Veterinarian Maria Serrano says 18 dogs have been put down in recent weeks at the pound.

The Miami Herald (http://bit.ly/zkEGMO ) reports the shelter has suspended adoptions and drop-offs in light of the outbreak.

Officials say dogs that have been recently adopted from the shelter can receive free vaccinations if they show symptoms of distemper. Symptoms include runny nose or eyes, coughing, fever, lethargy, vomiting and diarrhea. The vaccinations are offered Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

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Information from: The Miami Herald, http://www.herald.com

Source: Associated Press