According to a news release from MCAS, the facility will close its doors to the public but continue to offer appointments for its services.
MCAS said in a news release there is no evidence that pets can be infected with or spread the coronavirus, according to the World Small Animal Veterinary Association and World Health Organization. People with confirmed coronavirus should extend their avoidance of contact to pets as well as people, however, MCAS stated.
The facility has 274 animals in need of emergency fostering or adoption as of March 23, according to the release.
“Our goal is to greatly reduce the current animal inventory at MCAS by getting animals into foster homes, adopter homes or rescues during this closure,” MCAS Director Aaron Johnson said in the news release. “We can accommodate adoption, foster or rescue within shelter, curbside, and delivery or try to accommodate whatever needs or request you may have to make it happen.”
Montgomery County Animal Shelter services
MCAS provides a number of options for clients, volunteers and the public.
Fostering
Prospective foster families can:
- sign up for an appointment at https://app.waitwhile.com/book/mcasfostering;
- begin gathering resources and supplies needed for pet adoption; and
- maintain social distancing or stay in a vehicle when arriving at the facility.
Rescues
Rescue organizations should contact [email protected].
Adoptions
Adoptions can be arranged through https://app.waitwhile.com/book/mcasadoption to schedule a time. Fees are being waived to eliminate the handling of cash and credit cards, according to MCAS.
Volunteering
Current volunteers are still welcome, but the number on-site may be limited, according to MCAS. Individuals can contact [email protected] to schedule a time. Individuals may be asked to answer screening questions.
Wellness
The wellness center is open by appointment at https://app.waitwhile.com/book/wellnessmcas.
Live camera feed
The live Furbo camera feed is available at www.youtube.com/watch?v=PWLQ8SIw7I4.
Puppies on the live feed are available for fostering or adoption by contacting the shelter at [email protected].
Animal control services
The shelter is not accepting animals from the public brought to the facility. Animal control officers are responding to calls in the community such as rabies calls and aggressive or injured animal calls.
