Dog Adoptions Now Open - Intakes for Dogs Remain on Hold
Under the guidance of the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) Animal Health Program, Multnomah County Animal Services (MCAS) is partially lifting its quarantine and is once again open for dog adoptions, while intake for new dogs is still not permitted. ODA approved this partial reopening as there have been no additional deaths or new cases of Streptococcus zooepidemicus (SZ) in the adoption kennels since the quarantine began on February 12, 2026. We continue to conduct twice-daily veterinary rounds to ensure the health of all animals.
Dog Intakes On Hold
- Dog Intake Remains Paused: The shelter's dog intake kennels remain quarantined under the direction of the Oregon Department of Agriculture, and MCAS is not accepting new dog intakes.
- Community Support: We are grateful to community members who are holding stray dogs while searching for their owners while the shelter is under quarantine.
Shelter Capacity and Animal Health
Because Animal Services has been quarantined for 7 days, the shelter’s dog adoption kennels are full. Finding adoption outcomes will be beneficial for the health and wellness of the dogs individually, and to reduce shelter crowding impacting overall health.
We are asking for the community’s support to adopt, and share the need. Adoption outcomes will pave the way for the shelter to resume full operations when the quarantine is lifted for dogs in intake kennels.
Adoption Process Updates
While we are excited to find homes for our dogs, we are operating with continued caution. Please note the following new guidelines for adopters and the public:
- Showing Limit: Adopters are limited to meeting two dogs per visit.
- Adopted Dogs Home Quarantine: As a precaution, adopted dogs should remain in “home quarantine” for at least 14 days after adoption. This means they should not leave the home, or share the same space or resources as other dogs within the home.
- Adopter Education: Every adopter will receive a physical or digital SZ Information Sheet. Counselors will review the specific risks and symptoms of SZ with you before you take your new dog home.
Safety Protocols for Visitors at the Shelter
- Low-touch precautions: To prevent the potential spread of bacteria, visitors should limit touch points with the dogs, and washing hands between any contact.
- Hygiene Precautions: All visitors are advised to disinfect their shoes with a provided spray solution, and wash their hands after exiting the adoption kennels or finishing meeting a dog.
- Protective Measures: If you interact with a dog in a play yard, we strongly advise changing your clothing and washing before interacting with other dogs at home as a precaution.
