The respiratory illness and associated bacterial infection affecting San Diego Humane Society’s canine community is so serious that the shelter has stopped accepting dogs after three animals died, officials said. Stated.
The dogs are being attacked with a one-two punch. streptococcus equi Subspecies animal epidemiologyAlso called. strep zoobacterial infection mycoplasmaSDHS said the two, acting in tandem, “caused more severe illness than any one of these pathogens alone had observed at the shelter.”
”strep zoo “This is a bacteria that is primarily spread by direct contact and fomites,” the shelter said in a statement Monday. “To prevent the spread of the disease, all 77 dogs that tested positive or were infected have been isolated.” strep zoo The dogs are receiving medical treatment and staff working with the dogs are required to wear personal protective equipment. ”
Three dogs at the shelter died before the outbreak was discovered.
Jonathan Chapman, director of veterinary education at SDHS, told NBC 7 on Monday that the disease is typically found in animal shelters and poses little threat to the general dog population. He explained that fomites are inanimate objects that can transmit a disease, such as floors, doorknobs, clothing, and shoes.
The shelter has taken the unusual step of suspending dog surrenders until the end of this month, except in cases where there is a potential threat to the pet’s health. Further complicating the issue for SDHS is the fact that it is currently, and has been for quite some time, at capacity. In fact, at this time, officials say SDHS is significantly over capacity, with dog capacity at 178% and cat capacity at 116%.
“As a shelter with a large number of animals in our care, we are used to managing infectious diseases, but this is the first time we have experienced an outbreak of such a virulent pathogen,” he said. said Gary Weitzman, President and CEO of the Humane Society. “We believe this is a direct result of having to operate above capacity throughout this year. We really need the cooperation of the community to save lives here.”
According to officials, SDHS has made the following adjustments at all locations in San Diego, El Cajon, Escondido and Oceanside.
- Restrictions on dog intake for stray animals until December 1st
- Require other animal surrenders to be made by appointment only.
- Until December 1st, adoption fees will be waived for people who find lost dogs.
- Waived adoption fees for all puppies and dogs until December 1st
- encourage people to Adopt a dog temporarily
Posted by Humane Society dedicated page strep zoowill provide updates on the situation.
Humane Society spokeswoman Nina Thompson said there is support available for pet owners who think they may need to surrender their furry friends, including food assistance and veterinary care. Ta.
“Call and have a conversation,” Thompson said.
Thompson also said San Diegans can be part of the solution by adopting or fostering pets stuck in overcrowded shelters.
