Athens Reporter

The ACCGov Animal Services Department will limit services at its Adoption Center on October 23 and 24 to conduct a deep cleaning. This decision follows an increase in ringworm cases among animals housed at the facility located at 125 Buddy Christian Way. The limitations will affect both the cat and dog areas.

During this period, the center will suspend general adoptions, stray animal intakes, most volunteer services, and facility visitations. These activities are expected to resume on October 25. However, field services by officers and owner reclaims of animals will continue as usual.

Ringworm is a common fungal infection that affects both animals and humans. Although generally not severe, it can be irritating and may require treatment. The infection spreads through contact with fungus spores found on animals or contaminated objects. Despite being common in shelters, the Athens-Clarke County Adoption Center has recently experienced a spike in cases.

"Once we noticed an increase in ringworm cases, we began to implement new measures to treat incoming animals that exhibited likely signs of ringworm,” stated Animal Services Director Kristall Barber. "Limiting services for two days will provide our staff with an opportunity to thoroughly clean the facility as an additional proactive measure.”

Animal Services advises residents wishing to surrender pets before October 25 to call 706-613-3540 for guidance. Owners reclaiming animals will be informed about the presence of ringworm and advised to consult their vet if symptoms appear in their pets. As a precautionary step, all outgoing animals will receive antifungal treatment prior to release.

The shelter's staff continues specialized cleaning procedures aimed at minimizing fungus spread, thus preventing accidental exposure outside the shelter areas. Animal Services has also engaged with the Georgia Department of Agriculture's Animal Protection Division and consulted other area facilities potentially affected by this issue.

The ACCGov Animal Services Adoption Center operates from Monday through Saturday between 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM for various services including stray intakes, reclaims, walkthroughs, and adoptions; Sundays are reserved for scheduled adoption appointments.

For further information about Animal Services or the Adoption Center, visit www.accgov.com/animalservices or call 706-613-3540.