ORANGE COUNY, Fla. – Orange County Animal Services halted dog intakes and adoptions after a dog tested positive for a contagious bacteria.
According to an OCAS news release, the infected dog arrived at OCAS on June 8 after it had been running loose in a local apartment complex for the prior two weeks. On June 14, the dog was diagnosed with pneumonia. On Wednesday, a PCR test came back positive for Streptococcus Zooepidemicus, or “strep zoo.”
Normal stray animal intake and adoptions for dogs resumed on Monday, June 24. Cat intakes and adoptions remain available, as they have not been exposed.
The decision to shut down the shelter was made with an abundance of caution to prevent the spread of the disease. During the brief shutdown, dogs will be restricted in movement throughout the shelter with no dogs being able to enter or leave.
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During the shutdown period, OCAS staff members administered antibiotic treatment to approximately 200 dogs.
“While we’ve had other respiratory illnesses identified over the years, this is our first confirmed case of strep zoo,” said Diane Summers, manager for Orange County Animal Services. “The injectable antibiotic ceases any shedding of the disease in approximately 72 hours, so for this brief period, we’re going into a total lockdown.”
“Strep zoo” is a contagious bacteria that can lead to sudden death in canines. The shelter says the infected dog has already been given an antibiotic injection, as was his kennel mate, and they were moved to isolation away from the general population. Both dogs are in stable condition.
OCAS asks for support and patience during the shutdown. Anyone who finds a stray dog during this period is asked to hold onto the pet until intakes have resumed and to attempt to locate the owner through established methods.
“The types of diseases that occur here at the shelter are a reflection of what is happening in our community,” Summers said. “Most of our intakes are strays and while animals are loose, they can be exposed to any number of contagious illnesses.”
The shelter urges pet owners to keep dogs on a leash while out in public. Allowing pets to roam free or taking them to dog parks can be risky. If a pet owner notices respiratory symptoms, it’s crucial to seek veterinary guidance.
“Strep zoo” has prompted closures in other shelters across the country, including Phoenix, Los Angeles County, and Prince George County in Maryland.
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