Memphis Animal Services (MAS) has shut its doors to the public this Friday following the discovery of dogs infected with two serious viruses. The shelter, a cornerstone for pet adoption and animal care, announced the precautionary closure due to cases of canine distemper virus and canine infectious respiratory disease complex, reported by Local Memphis.

In light of the infections, MAS is putting the health and safety of animals first, also considering the welfare of the Memphis community by temporarily closing its facility. Although the shelter will not be conducting public adoptions for the time being, inquiries about pets up for adoption can still be made. As per a statement obtained by WREG, potential adopters can reach out via pet profiles, email, or by calling the shelter directly at 901-636-1416.

The shelter emphasized that while its doors are closed, efforts to connect pets with families will persist. MAS told Action News 5 that its commitment to animal care continues with staff diligently monitoring emails, and phone lines, to facilitate adoptions and provide information to the public.

MAS is also calling on volunteers to assist with in-kennel enrichment activities for pets. This call serves not only to maintain the morale, but the well-being of the animals in their care amidst the ongoing health scare. Volunteers are encouraged to continue providing direct support, an essential part of the animals' daily lives and rehabilitation while MAS combats the outbreak, according to Local Memphis. The shelter maintains that all necessary precautions will be enforced to protect both the volunteers and the animals during this time.