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Volunteers and adopters tell Multnomah County commissioners MCAS lacks medical staffing as kennel cough cases rise
Summary
Multiple volunteers and community members testified that Multnomah County Animal Services (MCAS) is experiencing increased kennel cough cases that are progressing to pneumonia, citing delayed veterinary exams, limited on-site medical staff, and low redemption of spay/neuter vouchers; commissioners asked staff to collect documentation and follow up.
A string of public commenters raised concerns about animal health care and shelter operations at Multnomah County Animal Services. Volunteers and adopters described multiple dogs who developed kennel cough that progressed to pneumonia after delays in veterinary assessment and treatment.
Speakers cited staffing levels in the sheltermedical unit: two full-time veterinarians at reduced FTEs, two certified veterinary technicians, and no medical director listed on the organizational chart. Witnesses said volunteers sometimes encountered non-medical staff offering medical advice and that that practice risks animal health and may breach Oregon statute (as asserted by one speaker) and job descriptions.
Case histories introduced into the record included dogs found as strays on Oct. 17 and later diagnosed with kennel cough and pneumonia, with treatment timelines suggesting gaps between intake and definitive vet care. One dog, "Winnie," was described as having been placed on protective custody, received medication but later developed pneumonia and was euthanized after a series of events volunteers characterized as preventable.
Speakers called for more on-site medical capacity, better use of Dolly's Fund for medical care (rather than staff salary), improved voucher redemption for spay/neuter services, and clearer protocols so medically untrained staff and volunteers do not provide medical advice.
County staff acknowledged receipt of documentation and encouraged volunteers to provide paper work to staff for follow-up. Commissioners thanked speakers and asked staff to follow up and provide materials to board members for additional review.
