Animals in Distress has re-opened to the public after outbreak of the potentially deadly canine parvovirus.
Staff have spent the last three weeks steaming and scrubbing down the entire Silver Street site to remove all traces of the highly contagious disease, and they now report their cleaning programme has been successful.
SalfordOnline.com reported exclusively how the Irlam animal sanctuary was forced into a 23-day quarantine when a dog rescued from Cadishead was found to have parvovirus.
Read: Irlam animal sanctuary on lockdown in parvovirus outbreak
Owners were urged to vaccinate their pets as soon as possible, as the viral disease could affect both cats and dogs.
The popular home on Silver Street in Irlam was unable to accept any new stray animals and both staff and volunteers were urged to stay away.
The former president of the British Veterinary Association Robin Hargreaves warned SalfordOnline.com readers how, if left untreated, parvovirus could cause very serious symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea and severe dehydration.
Today, Tuesday 24 November, Animals in Distress has declared itself free of the virus and it is now able to start rehoming some of the 100 animals it is currently caring for.
Speaking to SalfordOnline.com, sanctuary manager Melanie Dunn said: “The virus is well and truly gone.
“It was only the one dog that was brought into the sanctuary that had it, the other dogs didn’t contract the virus, we just had to make sure of that.
“Unfortunately it did have to be put to sleep, but all the other dogs are fine.”
Now the race is on to find homes for the poor pets they’re caring for before Christmas comes around.
At the charity’s two sites in Irlam and Rochdale there are a staggering 56 cats – all of whom are neutered – 20 budgies, 14 rabbits and even four pigs who need new homes.
Could you give these animals a home? Picture credit Animals in Distress
Melanie said: “We have a large amount of animals that need a new home forever.
“You name it, we have it: cats, kittens, dogs, horses, rabbits, guinea pigs, even ferrets!”
Animals in Distress was founded in 1967 to help relieve the suffering of sick and injured animals and remains the charity’s main aim today. It offers a 24-hour rescue programme, along with emergency veterinary treatment, neutering and a microchipping scheme.
If you can give an animal a loving forever home please contact Animals in Distress through their website or call 0161 775 2221.
