State Issues Warning To Catawba County Animal Shelter

The Catawba County Animal Services has received a warning letter from the North Carolina Animal Welfare Section following an investigation into the care provided to a dog named Lainey, who later died after being transferred to a rescue organization.

According to the warning letter, the investigation began after a complaint alleged the shelter failed to provide adequate veterinary care to the dog. The investigation included an unannounced site visit, review of shelter and veterinary records, and communications with the complainant.

Investigators found Lainey was impounded as a stray on December 14, 2025, with a large mass on her shoulder and an elevated temperature. Records showed the dog consistently had a fever ranging from 103.2 to 105.1 degrees during her stay at the shelter.

The shelter veterinarian examined Lainey multiple times between December and January and prescribed several medications. However, officials said the dog’s condition worsened over time, including increased lameness and enlargement of the mass.

On January 5, 2026, the shelter veterinarian reportedly recommended Lainey be seen by a full-service veterinary facility for bloodwork and radiographs. State investigators determined the shelter did not follow through with those recommendations.

Lainey was eventually transferred to a rescue organization on January 20, where a veterinary examination reportedly revealed anemia, elevated white blood cell counts, and signs consistent with blood loss or infection. The dog died the following day. A necropsy was not performed.

The state determined the shelter violated North Carolina administrative rules related to timely veterinary care and maintaining proper written medical disclosure records during transfers to rescue organizations.

The warning letter also noted issues with record production during the investigation. State officials said corrective measures and compliance improvements have since been discussed with shelter leadership and veterinarians.

The warning warns that future violations could result in civil penalties of up to $5,000 per violation or action against the shelter’s registration under the North Carolina Animal Welfare Act.