"Supporting Fairfax Co. Animal Shelter Amid Kennel Cough Outbreak"

The Fairfax County Animal Shelter in Virginia is experiencing a surge in kennel cough among its dogs, attributed to the increased number of dogs and longer stays. The shelter is seeking public assistance through adoption, fostering, and postponing surrenders. Adopting cats and other pets can free up staff time for symptomatic dogs, while fostering large dogs for two weeks is encouraged. Pet owners are asked to delay surrendering dogs and find direct rehoming options if possible. The shelter is implementing cleaning protocols and monitoring symptoms, but the infections are not transmissible to humans or other animals.