Winnebago County suspending dog adoptions for ‘potentially severe’ illness

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — Winnebago County Animal Services (WCAS) is temporarily suspending operations after a “potentially severe” upper respiratory infection was found in several dogs housed at the Animal Services’ facility.

“Strep Zoo (Streptococcus Zooepidemicus) has been found in several dogs currently housed at Winnebago County Animal Services,” the department said in a Facebook post on Saturday. “Strep Zoo is a bacterial infection that is highly contagious and spreads quickly in shelter environments where there is high population levels causing stressful environments for the dogs.”

Two dogs at WCAS’ facility were reportedly diagnosed with “severe” pneumonia. The potentially fatal bacteria was found in one of the dogs diagnosed with pneumonia, prompting a suspension in adoption services.

“While Strep Zoo has been around for several years in many parts of the United States, many people are still unaware of the potentially fatal bacterial infection,” WCAS said.

WCAS will temporarily suspend adoptions until new dogs are cleared by veterinary staff.

“We are asking community members to help reduce the intake of new dogs by holding on to stray, healthy dogs while using social media to help return dogs to their owners without entering the shelter,” WCAS said.

Recently-adopted dogs without symptoms should not be a concern, according to Animal Services.

“You can reach out to WCAS at (815) 319- 4100 for more information and support. If after normal business hours and your pet is experiencing signs of illness, please seek veterinary care.”