Animal shelter self-quarantines to care for sick cats

Webster’s House cat shelter in Chester has voluntarily placed itself under quarantine last week after some of the animals have been found to have symptoms of bordetella — also known as kennel cough. Bordetella is very contagious to cats, especially in shelter situations but it is successfully treated with antibiotics.

The affected animals are being treated but until the shelter is certain all cats are free of the bacteria they will remain under quarantine. It is predicted that the shelter will be closed to the public for approximately eight weeks.

During the temporary closure, the shelter will not accept nor adopt out any animals. It asks the public to stay away so as not to spread the bacterium outside of the shelter. If you need to surrender an animal or have found a stray, feel free to call and Webster’s will assist you in finding an alternative shelter.

The infection has caused a severe upswing in Webster’s House medical debt and upkeep costs. It is asking for donations toward the shelter’s bills especially vet bills. If interested in donating or for more information, contact the shelter at shelter@webstershouse.org or by calling 802-877-7777.