Canine parvo and feline panleukopenia are closely related viruses that replicate in rapidly dividing cells.

Distemper occurs intermittently, especially in shelters located in communities with many unvaccinated dogs, and can appear identical to run-of-the-mill "kennel cough."

Feline upper respiratory infection (URI) is perhaps the most frustrating illness facing shelter veterinarians, managers and staff.

Animal shelters create a unique environment for the emergence and propagation of infectious diseases.

It is only relatively recently that shelters actually house cats. Most older shelters were designed to house only dogs as this was the legal mandate of animal control.

Many shelters are faced with diseases that seem resistant to typical treatment protocols.

Many shelters are faced with diseases that seem resistant to typical treatment protocols.

Ringworm in animal shelters can lead to almost unmanageable outbreaks, thousands of dollars in diagnostic and medical costs, the possibility of spread to adopters and staff, and an intolerable blow to shelter status in the community.

Distemper occurs intermittently, especially in shelters located in communities with many unvaccinated dogs, and can appear identical to run-of-the-mill "kennel cough."