South L.A. Animal Shelter Faces Prolonged Dog Confinement Due to Giardia Outbreak
An outbreak of giardia, a highly contagious parasitic infection, has led to the confinement of dogs at a South Los Angeles animal shelter for over three weeks. According to L.A. Animal Services, 20 dogs at the Chesterfield Square shelter have tested positive for the infection, which can cause diarrhea in both animals and humans. The outbreak was first detected on January 22, prompting the shelter to halt walks, playgroups, and adoption meetings outside kennels. Initially set for a two-week isolation period, the confinement has been extended indefinitely as the shelter's veterinarians work to contain the spread. The shelter, which is mandated to accept all stray, abandoned, or injured animals, faces challenges in maintaining cleanliness due to a lack of a tracking system for daily kennel cleaning. Critics have raised concerns about the impact of prolonged confinement on the dogs' well-being, with some animals showing signs of stress and behavioral decline. 
