Sumner County Shelter Closes After Parvo Case

The Humane Society of Sumner County suspended public access to its Hendersonville facility on October 31 after a puppy in its care tested positive for parvovirus. The nonprofit shelter announced the closure via social media, stating it would remain shut to visitors until November 14, 2026. During this two-week period, staff will monitor the health of the remaining dogs in the building to prevent the spread of the virus.

The closure began immediately following the diagnosis of Powder, a four-month-old puppy. The animal required immediate admission to an emergency hospital for treatment. HSSC described the situation as a difficult moment for the organization and its staff, who are working to stabilize the animal while managing the shelter’s operations behind closed doors.

Parvovirus is a highly contagious disease that affects the gastrointestinal tract and white blood cells of dogs. The American Veterinary Medical Association notes that the virus can also damage the heart muscle in young animals. Signs of infection include lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, severe bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and drooling. The AVMA advises that any dog showing these symptoms should see a veterinarian immediately.

Puppies between the ages of six and 20 weeks are at the highest risk for contracting the virus. Unvaccinated or incompletely vaccinated dogs are also vulnerable. Certain breeds, including Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, Bull Terriers, German Shepherds, and English Springer Spaniels, face additional risk according to veterinary guidelines.

The shelter is not the only animal care facility in the region dealing with recent parvo cases. Metro Nashville Animal Care and Control temporarily closed its doors following a similar diagnosis. In Cookeville, a local animal shelter reported that several new arrivals tested positive for the virus. Additionally, dogs rescued in a large-scale mission in Memphis by a Nashville organization also tested positive for the contagious pathogen.

HSSC has asked the public to continue supporting the shelter during the closure. People can drop off physical donations at the front door of the center. The organization specifically requested bleach, latex gloves in all sizes, shoe covers, gowns, and cans of pure pumpkin. These items are essential for the intensive cleaning and disinfecting protocols required to manage the outbreak.

Beyond physical supplies, the shelter is requesting financial contributions to cover the costs of veterinary care, testing, medications, and general animal care. HSSC stated that funds are needed to support the ongoing treatment of Powder and the maintenance of the other animals in the shelter. The organization encouraged residents who cannot donate financially to share the fundraiser to help reach potential contributors.

The shelter plans to reopen its doors to the public on November 14. Until then, the facility will remain closed to allow staff to complete the necessary monitoring and cleaning procedures. The organization expressed gratitude to the community for standing with its staff during this time.

Staff members continue to care for the animals on site while the building remains closed to visitors. The primary goal is to ensure the health of the remaining dogs and to prepare for a safe reopening on the scheduled date.