Apple Valley Animal Shelter Joins BISSELL Pet Foundation’s “Empty the Shelters” Event Following Distemper Closure

Apple Valley Animal Shelter Joins BISSELL Pet Foundation's "Empty the Shelters" Event Following Distemper Closure

Apple Valley, CA - April 29, 2025 - After a temporary closure due to a canine distemper outbreak, the Apple Valley Animal Shelter is set to reopen its doors to the public on May 1, 2025, with a clean bill of health for our adoptable animals - and a special opportunity to help them start their next chapter.

The shelter has had no new cases of canine respiratory illness or neurological symptoms in its main animal population since April 22, 2025. Following isolation of symptomatic dogs, multiple rounds of vaccinations, thorough health monitoring, detailed disinfecting and consultations with our supervising veterinarian, the shelter has been cleared to resume limited public operations after closing on April 9, 2025.

"We've taken every precaution to ensure the health of our animals," said Kristin Hall, Animal Shelter Health Supervisor and Registered Veterinary Technician. "Dogs available for adoption have been closely monitored for more than two weeks and have received multiple vaccinations to ensure they are healthy and ready to find a new home."

Dogs who do not yet meet this health threshold will remain in isolation, where they continue to receive care and vaccinations as directed by the supervising veterinarian. This holding area will remain closed to the public as an added precaution against potential spread of disease. The shelter will continue to follow strict vaccination and intake isolation protocols for all new arrivals.

In conjunction with its reopening, the Apple Valley Animal Shelter is excited to participate for the first time in the BISSELL Pet Foundation's "Empty the Shelters" adoption event, joining over 380 shelters in 43 states. From May 1-15, adoption fees will be reduced:

• $50 dog adoptions
• $20 cat adoptions
  (Spay/neuter deposit may apply)

Adoptions will take place at:

Apple Valley Animal Shelter

22131 Powhatan Rd, Apple Valley, CA 92308

For adoptable pets and event details, visit AVanimals.org.

"Every time we host Empty the Shelters, it affirms the importance of this lifesaving program," said Cathy Bissell, Founder of BISSELL Pet Foundation. "During the two-week event in May, tens of thousands of pets of all kinds, many who've waited far too long, will find the loving homes they deserve."

Apple Valley is proud to be part of this national movement and invites the community to join in giving these animals the second chance they deserve.

Together, we can create a "Better Way of Life"-four paws at a time.

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