HANOVER COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- A confirmed case of canine illness has prompted the Hanover County Animal Protection and Shelter to temporarily pause or reduce accepting new animals. In a March 27 social post by Hanover County, officials announced that the Hanover County Animal Protection and Shelter will be taking a temporary intake pause due to a confirmed case of canine illness. Officials said this means that immediate owner surrenders are temporarily paused. It also means that the shelter is currently operating with a waiting list for surrenders and that the team is actively implementing enhanced cleaning and monitoring protocols. "Illnesses like this can spread quickly in shelter environments and taking early action allows them to limit exposure and keep both current and future animals safe," officials wrote. The county said anyone in need of surrendering a pet should contact their staff to be added to the waiting list, as they will work with pet owners as soon as it is safe to resume normal intake operations. Pet owners can also call 804-355-6485. "It's understood that this may be an inconvenience and your patience and support is truly appreciated while the work is done to resolve this situation safely and responsibly," officials added. ...read more read less