The First Avenue location of the Prince George Humane Society. (Image Credit: Google Maps)

By Victor Kaisar

Virus Outbreaks

PG Humane Society closes 1st Avenue shelter after pair of outbreaks at both locations

Mar 7, 2026 | 5:00 PM

PRINCE GEORGE — The Prince George Humane Society is dealing with an outbreak of feline panleukopenia, which has forced the temporary closure of its First Avenue location.

In a post on social media, the Humane Society says its been “an incredibly difficult week” for its team and for the animals in its care.

“The moment we noticed symptoms, we immediately closed all adoption rooms to the public and moved into full containment protocols,” the post said, noting there is no estimated date when the First Avenue location will reopen.

“This decision was heartbreaking, but it was the only responsible choice to stop the spread and keep the shelter and community animals safe.”

Feline panleukopenia (also called feline distemper) is a highly contagious, potentially fatal disease of cats caused by the feline panleukopenia virus (FPV, also called feline parvovirus). Kittens are most severely affected, but there are vaccines that help protect cats against feline panleukopenia.

Virus Outbreaks

PG Humane Society closes 1st Avenue shelter after pair of outbreaks at both locations

1h ago

Small Claims Court

BC Hydro claims city snow removal damaged transformer

4h ago

Batten Down The Hatches

Wind warnings in effect for Prince George, parts of northern B.C.

8h ago

The Humane Society is also dealing with two confirmed cases of parvovirus at its Lansdowne location, which was only just released from a previous outbreak. This location – 4011 Lansdowne Road – remains open for cat adoptions.

“We know how upsetting this news is,” the statement added. “We want to reassure everyone that the animal who first tested positive was not from the community and only recently came into our care. As soon as the first positive result came in, the shelter went into full lockdown to prevent any risk of transmission.”

Canine parvovirus infection is a highly contagious disease caused by canine parvovirus type 2 (CPV-2). The virus attacks white blood cells and the gastrointestinal tract of dogs and other canids like coyotes, wolves, and foxes. In puppies, the virus also can damage the heart muscle.

The Prince George Humane Society says it is focused on protecting all of the animals in its care, which includes moving any puppies and kittens out of the shelter as quickly as possible. It is also working to maintain strict biosecurity protocols to prevent community spread, while supporting fosters to ensure parvovirus does not leave the home.

“These outbreaks are emotionally exhausting, medically complex, and extremely costly,” the statement added. “Treatment, isolation, and deep sanitation require resources far beyond our normal operating budget. We are asking our community – our partners in animal welfare- for help.

People looking to help can do so by making a financial donation to support medical care and outbreak response here. Donations of clean blankets and towels are also being accepted at the Lansdowne location.

The search is also on for foster homes with no other pets for both puppies and kittens. Applications can be submitted here, while people who already have an approved application are asked to reach out to the Prince George Humane Society.

“Every decision we make is guided by one priority: protecting the animals and the community we serve,” the Humane Society said. “We know how much trust you place in us, and we are doing everything in our power to honour that trust.”

“Thank you for standing with us during this difficult time. Your support truly makes the difference between fear and hope for the animals who need us most.”