Animal Services Announces Partial Isolation Due to Strep Zoo

Marion County Animal Services (MCAS) has confirmed a positive case of streptococcus zooepidemicus (strep zoo), a bacterium that can pose a serious health risk to dogs, particularly in high-stress or high-density environments such as animal shelters and kennels.

Out of an abundance of caution, and in close partnership with the University of Florida's Shelter Medicine program, MCAS has immediately implemented comprehensive prevention and treatment protocols, including:

• Kennel B will be closed to visitors and volunteers for a minimum of three days to allow continuous observation, aggressive treatment, and thorough sanitation procedures.
• All dogs currently housed in Kennel B will be closely monitored for potential signs of exposure or illness, including nasal discharge, lethargy, respiratory distress, or sudden decline.
• Injectable antibiotic treatment, Convenia®, has been ordered for all 71 dogs in Kennel B. This long-acting, injectable antibiotic has been proven to provide sustained protection. The medication was overnighted and is expected to arrive shortly. Once received, all treatments will be administered under veterinary supervision.
• MCAS operations remain active for all other kennels and services. This is a partial isolation only, not a full shutdown. All animals throughout the facility continue to be carefully monitored for any signs of illness or exposure.
• Ongoing collaboration continues with the University of Florida Shelter Medicine team to ensure that every decision reflects the most current, evidence-based best practices.

About Strep Zoo

Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus ("Strep Zoo") is a bacterial pathogen that can cause acute respiratory illness in dogs.

Important facts:

• Not typically a human health concern: Transmission to humans is extremely rare under normal circumstances.
• Stress increases risk: Dogs in shelter environments may be more susceptible due to stress, which can weaken immune response and increase the likelihood of illness.
• Treatment is effective: According to the University of Florida's Shelter Medicine Program, dogs typically respond well to appropriate antibiotic therapy, and the risk of spread declines significantly once treatment begins.

What This Means for Our Shelter Community

MCAS assures the public that this situation is being managed proactively, compassionately, and in accordance with expert veterinary guidance. Our team is deeply committed to the safety and well-being of every animal in our care.

Here's how the community can help:

• Adopt or foster: Adoptions and fosters remain open for healthy dogs housed outside of Kennel B. Providing a temporary or permanent home helps reduce stress in the shelter and supports disease-control efforts.
• Delay non-urgent intakes: If possible, please postpone non-emergency surrenders or stray intakes for a few days to allow staff to focus resources on at-risk dogs.
• Donate supplies: Clean blankets, towels, and beds are greatly appreciated. These donations allow staff to safely dispose of exposed items, preventing any chance of fomite-based transmission.

Our Gratitude to the Community

Marion County Animal Services extends sincere thanks to our adopters, fosters, volunteers, donors, and animal welfare partners for their continued support and understanding. Situations like this underscore the importance of community collaboration and the shared commitment to protecting the health and well-being of shelter animals.

Every adoption, every foster, and every act of support makes a meaningful difference.

Keeping Our Community Informed

MCAS is committed to transparency and will continue to share timely updates with the public as new information becomes available. Updates on the status, treatment progress, and reopening of Kennel B will be provided through the Marion County Animal Services website and official social media channels.

Community members are encouraged to follow Marion County Animal Services on Facebook and visit MarionFL.org/Animal for the latest information.