CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (CLARKSVILLENOW) – A COVID-19 outbreak has forced the closure of the Montgomery County Animal Care and Control until Jan. 11.

As of Jan. 4, 11 of MCACC’s 20 staff members have tested positive for COVID-19, according to a news release by the county government.

The shelter was closed last week for deep cleaning as a precaution, according to a previous statement.

During the extended closure, the nine staff members who are working at the shelter site will be focused on caring for the animals currently in the facility.

Owner surrenders are not being accepted while the facility is closed to the public.

Strays may still be brought to the facility; however, anyone bringing in a stray will need to call the shelter at 931-648-5750 upon arrival and wait in their vehicle for further instructions.

At this time, the hold period for stray pets with no sign of ownership will be extended.

According to county spokesperson Michelle Newell, the shelter has been deep cleaned in an effort to prevent further spread of COVID-19.