For dogs, “get well soon” sentiments are best delivered in Kongs

When dogs are sick, they can’t binge a favorite comforting show or scroll viral videos. We have lots of approaches to keeping boredom at bay while our shelter medicine team cares for dogs who are being isolated due to exposure to or symptoms of canine influenza.

Our Canine Enrichment Specialist Alex Dandridge spends time with each dog on in-kennel enrichment. He uses snuffle mats, kiddie pools, Kongs and bubbles to give them variety, entertainment and exercise.

We’re seeing that the dogs who began coughing first are already getting past the initial lethargy and loss of appetite and showing significant improvement. Our professional veterinary staff are also working with dogs who still need close monitoring but are encouraged by the recovery progress of most of our quarantined cases.

The Richmond SPCA’s humane center remains open for adoptions while we isolate and treat dogs for canine influenza. Here’s what guardians should know about the presence of this virus in our community.

Many enrichment items used by our animal care team can be found on our wish list to be shipped directly to the pets in our care.