Indianapolis Animal Care Services (IACS) announced Thursday they would be temporarily limiting the intake of non-emergency animals following the sudden death of a dog in their care.
The dog died less than 24 hours after first exhibiting signs of illness. After sending samples for testing last week, the results came back as kennel cough. One other dog began showing symptoms and is currently isolated and receiving care. Any additional dogs showing signs of illness will be isolated, treated and closely monitored.

Animals are still available for adoption during the temporary intake pause. Currently, the shelter has 192 dogs and 25 cats available. Adopters are encouraged to monitor new pets for any signs of illness and seek medical assistance from their veterinarian if they have any concerns.
IACS will resume the intake of animals in non-emergency situations once isolation and cleaning protocols have ensured the illness is not spreading. In the meantime, the shelter will still accept animals that have been injured or present a public safety risk.
For more information, visit indy.gov/agency/animal-care-services.
Contact Health & Environmental Reporter Hanna Rauworth at 317-762-7854 or follow her on Instagram at @hanna.rauworth.
Hanna Rauworth is the Health & Environmental Reporter for the Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper, where she covers topics at the intersection of public health, environmental issues, and community impact. With a commitment to storytelling that informs and empowers, she strives to highlight the challenges and solutions shaping the well-being of Indianapolis residents.