Distemper outbreak hits Springfield shelter

SPRINGFIELD, Ohio (AP) — An outbreak of distemper led an Ohio animal shelter to close for a week and put down about two dozen dogs.

A veterinarian and the Clark County Humane Society in western Ohio say there may be a connection to the economy. They say dog owners with money troubles are not vaccinating their pets or are abandoning them.

The Springfield News-Sun reports (http://bit.ly/wMR1Wq ) the outbreak of the deadly canine virus came to light after 10 dogs that were adopted or placed in foster homes out of the humane society tested positive late last year.

Veterinarian Dr. Dana King says it may be the worst distemper outbreak in the area in 10 years.