THOMASTON – Veterinarians around the country reporting an increased number of dogs presenting with acute respiratory infection from mild to life-threatening.
It is a rapidly evolving situation not yet clear if this highly contagious illness is caused by an emerging pathogen or one of the well-known causes, the Thomaston Dog Park is closed until further notice, according to a Nov. 30 news release from the park’s board of directors.

The release said:

Dear Friends,
It is with heavy hearts that we have made the decision to close the dog park until further notice. Our volunteer board of trustees and close community members have consulted with each other and with state authorities and local veterinarians on this matter. Due to the facts that:
1. the illness is unidentified
2. it is highly contagious
3. it is spreading rapidly
4. it has now been identified in Maine
we are taking the prudent steps to remove services from the park and close it to the public until further notice.

We will endeavor to post updates to the TDPA Facebook page as info comes available. You will likely not hear from us again via email until notice of re-opening. If you wish to learn more I would encourage you to use the resources provided below. If questions or concerns remain, contact your local veterinary clinic.

Be well, and take good care of your beloved canine friends in public spaces where they congregate together, at least until we have more information about this mysterious infection.