KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Young-Williams Animal Center reached zero cases of distemper as of July 2, according to a post on its website.
The center said it resumed the full use of all facilities as well as its adoption, spay and neuter departments.
"Thanks to four weeks of round-the-clock collaboration between a team of dedicated consultants, experts, our unwavering staff and public support, we were able to take immediate and decisive actions to ensure the health and safety of our animals and the community," the animal center said.
Young-Williams had a save rate of 87% of the dogs in its care, with 160 out of 187 being saved. This extremely high save rate is usually unheard of compared to the typical outcome of distemper outbreaks, according to the center.
"We could not have made this happen without your help," Young-Williams said. "Shelters throughout the nation, and especially in our Southeast region, are battling distemper, and we know that one of the main causes of the spread of canine disease is the high intake of dogs into the shelter."
According to the animal center, 2024 is on track to become a record year for the intake of stray dogs. After several years of an upward trend, the animal welfare community has identified the primary cause is a lack of owner education on responsible ownership and a lack of resources.
"It is of utmost importance to us to protect the animals in our care and those in our community, and the best way to do that is to reduce the number of pets in the shelter while our educational and pet owner support programs as well as our Animal Services team continue to work at the root cause," the center said.
Young-Williams Animal Center said it will be taking several immediate actions to help ensure the safety of the animals in their care, including:
- Stepping up efforts to encourage adoption
- Making pet ownership possible for all local residents
- Launching a three-day Empty the Shelters adoption special starting July 5 making all adoptions completely free
- temporarily remaining on a limited intake status
Starting July 8, the intake of stray dogs will be by appointment only, the center said. The center asked that if a stray dog is found, people should keep it for a few days and help look for the owner.
"If you can not help this pet, we’ll support you by providing any supplies you may need," Young Williams said. "Young-Williams Animal Center along with Young-Williams Animal Services is asking all residents of Knoxville and Knox County to refrain from bringing stray dogs to the shelter."
According to Young-Williams, dogs only have a 10% chance of being reclaimed once they go to a shelter.
"The public can help keep animals out of the shelter by looking for their owner, who is typically within a mile radius and usually within a few streets," the center said.
Young-Williams urged those who have found a stray pet to first search for the owner, and then post the pet on Petco Love Lost which is linked to apps such as NextDoor and Ring.
"Our staff greatly appreciate the words of support and love we have received as they poured their hearts and energy into safeguarding our dogs these last few weeks," the animal center said. "Thank YOU for helping us prioritize the animals in our care, vulnerable pets in our community and pet owners through this challenging period: We will make a lasting impact together!"