NEWMARKET, Ontario, May 11 (UPI) -- Nearly 350 dogs, cats and other animals were to be euthanized at a York Region shelter because of a severe outbreak of ringworm, Canadian authorities said.
Attempts to contain the highly contagious fungal infection had failed, said Kate MacDonald, chief executive officer of the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
"We do not take euthanasia lightly. We are extremely saddened by the situation, but we're here now and as you're aware, ringworm is highly contagious," MacDonald told The Toronto Star in a story published Tuesday.
The shelter in Newmarket was closed Monday, volunteers told to leave the premises and security guards stationed outside after reports that some distraught volunteers might try to save the animals, the Star said.
MacDonald confirmed the shelter's manager, Denise Stephenson, was fired over the outbreak.
"It was due to protocols breaking down," MacDonald said. "An outbreak like this is containable when protocols are followed."
Stephenson could not be reached for comment.
