KERR COUNTY, Texas – Kerrville Pets Alive is warning local families to keep their pets — and themselves — out of the Guadalupe River for the time being.
The nonprofit shelter said the river water in Kerrville has contaminants that can pose a serious health hazard to pets.
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Experts are estimating it will be weeks before the river is cleared of the contaminants, according to a Facebook post from KPA.
Many search and rescue dogs who were deployed during the flood have experienced gastrointestinal distress from drinking or being exposed to contaminated water.
These dogs are currently being cared for by Dr. Debra Zoran, a professor at Texas A&M University.
Zoran is also the Director of Texas A&M’s VET FEMA IST, and a Veterinarian for their Task Force 1 Urban Search and Rescue, KPA said.
KPA said even fast-moving floodwater can pose a serious health risk. This includes:
- Human waste from overflowing or broken systems
- Household cleaners and chemicals
- Automotive fluids, such as oil and fuel
- Harmful viruses, bacteria, molds, parasites and Giardia. These can be transmitted to humans
- Debris, which feeds toxic organisms like blue-green algae
While first responders enter the water with appropriate gear, pets do not have the same protection.
“Please be mindful of the risks and avoid exposing your pets to floodwaters,” KPA said. “Their health and safety depend on you.”