Outbreak Panic Halts Pinal Shelter Services as Maricopa Dog Owner Speaks Out

PINAL COUNTY, AZ — The Pinal County Animal Care and Control (PCACC) shelter announced a temporary suspension of public dog activities following a positive case of Canine Distemper in its population. The announcement came late last night, prompting immediate action to protect the dogs.

Canine Distemper is a highly contagious virus that impacts respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems in dogs. Given the confirmed case, shelter officials are implementing strict measures to minimize exposure and prevent further transmission.

In a bid to control the situation, PCACC has halted all nonemergency owner surrenders until at least May 8, ten days post-diagnosis. The shelter is currently waiting for diagnostic test results from a significant portion of its canine residents.

Local residents who find stray dogs are requested to bring them to the shelter for immediate vaccination. Fostering is encouraged for 72 hours to offer these animals the best chance of protection before entering the shelter environment.

“We are doing everything we can to limit exposure within the shelter,” a PCACC representative stated. The efforts include revaccinating all dogs in their care and limiting dog-to-dog interactions to avoid potential cross-contamination.

Despite the situation, some dog owners in Maricopa remain unfazed. Robert Uhrine, 67, expressed his lack of concern while at Copper Sky Dog Park. “I know the dogs and dog owners that come here,” he said.

Uhrine sat in the sun with his rescue dogs, Andy and Maxx, while he enjoyed a cigar. He was the only visitor at the calmer section of the park during the late morning hours.

While playgroups and meet-and-greets are suspended, the shelter continues to facilitate cat adoptions, pet licensing, and other administrative services. Human meetings will also take place in the parking lot until the shelter confirms test results.

PCACC is actively seeking foster homes, particularly for puppies, who are at greatest risk. Individuals interested in fostering puppies are encouraged to reach out via email.

Unvaccinated dogs should be kept away from public areas like dog parks and shelters. Officials also advised pet owners to stay cautious around regions where they may encounter wildlife, as animals such as coyotes and javelinas can also harbor the virus.

Updates regarding the situation will be shared as new test results are received, according to PCACC.