FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – Cumberland County Animal Services is providing an update on current operations and available services. The department continues working toward a safe and responsible return to full operations following a temporary pause on animal intake and adoptions.
Since the pause began in January, staff and veterinary partners have made significant progress identifying, isolating and treating animals affected by a respiratory illness. Case numbers continue to decline, and Animal Services is implementing a phased approach to resuming services while maintaining strong health and safety protocols.
Diagnostic testing has confirmed the presence of common canine respiratory pathogens. While these illnesses are treatable, their incubation periods and the ongoing identification of new cases require continued isolation to ensure a safe reopening for animals, staff and the public.
Animal Services is working closely with veterinary professionals, Cumberland County Public Health and the North Carolina Department of Agriculture to follow best-practice guidance for containment and recovery. Enhanced cleaning protocols and supplemental air filtration remain in place throughout the facility. The County is also coordinating with regional partners to support recovery efforts and strengthen long-term prevention measures.
Animal Services and County leadership continue evaluating conditions daily and will share updates as progress continues. The County remains committed to reopening full operations as soon as it is safe to do so.
While recovery efforts continue, Animal Services remains committed to serving the community in several important ways.
In addition to ongoing animal care and operational services, Animal Services is supporting pet owners through a drive-thru pet food distribution event.
Event Details
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When: Tuesday, Feb. 17, from 2 to 4 p.m.
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Where: Cumberland County Animal Services, 4704 Corporation Dr., Fayetteville
Pet food has been generously donated by Chewy.
Animal Services Phased Reopening Details
Public adoptions and owner intake remain temporarily closed, and volunteer services remain paused at this time.
Modified intake and enforcement protocols also remain in effect, including intake of Level 4 and above bite cases and animals received through law enforcement partners.
Rescues may pull non-symptomatic animals with appropriate notification regarding the recent respiratory illness outbreak.
To support ongoing care and adoption readiness:
Cumberland County Animal Services thanks residents, volunteers, rescue partners and animal advocates for their patience, compassion and continued support.
Visit cumberlandcountync.gov/animals to learn more about Cumberland County Animal Services.
For more information about Cumberland County Government, visit cumberlandcountync.gov, download the MyCCNCGov app or follow CCNCGOV on social media.