October 3, 2019 -- 

ANIMAL SERVICES UPDATE (Video) - Our Animal Services folks are in full emergency mode dealing with an outbreak of Streptococcus zooepidemicus that has killed at least four dogs at the shelter.  Watch the video for an update that includes;

• The shelter will remain closed to the public and volunteers for at least two weeks.
• The shelter is NOT accepting animals at the shelter during this time.
• The animals in the shelter are being cared for by staff as normal.
• The animals will get a preliminary vaccine.
• The animals will be given an injectable antibiotic starting this afternoon.
• A professional cleaning crew will be brought in to thoroughly clean the facility.
• Animal Services officers will still respond to calls.  They are working with humane societies and rescue groups to find temporary housing.

-----

October 2, 2019 --- The unexpected deaths of two dogs at Cobb County Animal Services prompted an investigation that revealed they had contracted Streptococcus Zooepidemicus (strep zoo).  Strep zoo is a highly contagious bacterial infection that affects the respiratory system and is often fatal to shelter animals.

“After consulting with our on-site veterinarians, we determined that closing the facility was the only option available,” said Shana Luke, Animal Services Division Director.  “We will embark on a thorough cleaning process of the entire facility, and put all the animals in the shelter on an antibiotic regimen.”

Cobb Animal Services will close for at least two weeks.  In the meantime, volunteers are asked not to report to the facility, and no new animals will be accepted at the shelter.  Animal Services personnel will work with people on a case-by-case basis to provide care in certain situations.

Anyone who has adopted an animal from Cobb Animal Services in the past two weeks should consult their veterinarian.

“This is an unfortunate incident and we deeply regret having to close to the public,” Luke said.  “But the health and welfare of the animals we care for is our top priority.”

Luke also said all available personnel will begin cleaning the facility immediately.  Veterinarians will monitor the health of the dogs and cats still in the shelter.