San Antonio Animal Care Services has reported a rise in canine distemper cases among its shelter population and is urgently seeking emergency foster homes to help control the spread of this viral disease. The agency announced these needs in an update on October 1, 2026, indicating that it is implementing additional measures to mitigate transmission risks, including consultations with experts from Purdue College of Veterinary Medicine.
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Canine distemper primarily affects unvaccinated and under-vaccinated dogs. Symptoms can range from mild, such as eye and nasal discharge, to more severe signs like coughing, fever, poor appetite, and diarrhea. Animal Care Services Director Jon Gary noted that the recent increase in cases reflects broader community trends, emphasizing the need for shelters to adapt. He stated, "That means taking a hard look at our shelter processes while also helping pet guardians understand the lifesaving importance of vaccination. Our goal is to protect the animals already in our care, the animals entering the shelter, and pets throughout San Antonio."
While rabies vaccinations are mandatory, other core vaccines, including those for distemper and parvovirus, are not required by law. Gary explained that many pet owners may mistakenly believe these vaccinations are unnecessary. Lisa Norwood from Animal Care Services encouraged residents to take advantage of local vaccination options, noting that free vaccination clinics are available almost every weekend in San Antonio.
Despite the challenges, the shelter continues to provide services such as adoptions, fostering, and rescue transfers while assessing additional safety measures. Norwood mentioned that although pets are vaccinated upon intake, it takes time for them to develop immunity. Emergency fosters are critically needed, as even a two to three-week placement can significantly reduce a dog's exposure to the virus while they build their immunity. Ideal foster homes are those without dogs or those with dogs that are at least one year old and fully vaccinated.
Fostering through Animal Care Services incurs no cost, as all necessary supplies will be provided. Norwood affirmed, "You don't have to pay for anything. We will give you the food. We will get you the medical that you have to have for your pet."
Pet owners are reminded to ensure their dogs are up-to-date on core vaccinations and to consult a veterinarian if their pets exhibit any symptoms of illness. The shelter is open until 7 p.m. seven days a week, with weekend hours extending until 5 p.m. Norwood stated, “Become an emergency foster and we can have you go home with a pet today.”