File Photo courtesy APARC

By Regan Tate

APARC in need of emergency fosters following outbreak of serious disease

Jan 6, 2023 | 9:20 AM

Medicine Hat, AB–The Alberta Pound and Rescue Centre is in full lockdown for 3 weeks following an outbreak of panleukopenia.

In a post on social media, APARC says this is an extremely serious disease and that any animals showing signs of illness will have to be euthanized immediately,.

Panleukopenia decreases the number of white blood cells in the body. White blood cells play a major role in immunity and are important in defending against infections and diseases.

In severe panleukopenia, white blood cell numbers may drop from the normal of several thousand per milliliter of blood to just a few hundred. This makes an affected cat extremely vulnerable to other infections.

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Without supportive care, up to 90% of cats with this disease may die. Sadly even with supportive care, there is no guarantee a cat will survive.

The most high-risk cats include kittens under 6 months, pregnant cats, immune-compromised cats, and non-vaccinated cats.

APARC says due to the the number of cats and dogs in a small building, it is unable to isolate sick or infected pets.

In hopes of saving as many lives as possible during this time, APARC is looking for emergency fosters. The shelter’s veterinarian has recommended finding foster homes for the most vulnerable so homes are needed for 27 kittens. The kittens must be kept in a room that is easy to clean like a bathroom and there can be no other cats in the home.

APARC is also looking for serving carts to try and prevent the disease from spreading from room to room. These carts will be stocked in a clean and sanitized area to feed and clean the pets in their individual areas.

During the lockdown, APARC will operate by appointment only for reclaims. Anyone dealing with stray pets is asked to contact Medicine Hat Bylaw.