FAQs on Strep zoo
HSPPR has confirmed several cases of Strep zoo affecting dogs at our Colorado Springs location. We are taking all necessary steps to keep the animals in our shelter and our community safe. To help prevent further exposure, HSPPR has moved to emergency medical and behavior intakes only until at least February 27. The fewer animals we take in, the lower the risk of the bacteria spreading. Below are some FAQs to help you learn more about Strep zoo.
Strep zoo is a type of bacteria that can affect dogs. It can spread easily and cause serious illness, including death. Common symptoms include coughing, nasal discharge, vomiting, labored breathing, and coughing blood. The onset of the illness is typically sudden.
The bacteria spreads through direct contact between dogs and contact with contaminated objects, like shoes and bowls. It can also be passed during cleaning processes. We’re not sure exactly how long Strep zoo can survive in the environment or on objects, but our Rescue disinfectant products are effective at killing it.
Since it’s a bacterial infection, Strep zoo can be treated with antibiotics. However, it’s resistant to doxycycline, which we often use for other respiratory diseases in shelters. Instead, it’s treated with penicillin, amoxicillin, cephalexin, or cefovecin (Convenia).
The early signs are similar to kennel cough—coughing, sneezing, and nasal discharge. Other signs like lethargy, depression, and vomiting can also appear. In severe cases, dogs can rapidly decline, with symptoms worsening in 24-48 hours. Severe cases may also show bleeding from the mouth and nose.
A swab from the dog’s nose or mouth can be sent to a lab for testing (PCR or bacterial culture) to confirm if it’s Strep zoo.
Currently, there are no vaccines available for Strep zoo.
It’s unlikely that you’ll bring it home to your pets, but there are precautions you can take. Since there’s no vaccine, the best way to protect your animals is by minimizing the chance of bringing the bacteria home on your clothes or shoes. If you volunteer or visit the shelter, consider changing your clothes and washing your hands before interacting with your pets. Disinfecting your shoes can also help prevent the spread.
No, Strep zoo typically doesn’t affect cats, except in cases where a cat is severely immunocompromised due to other health issues.
Infections in humans are very rare, and they’re usually tied to other underlying health problems. Most human cases have been linked to consuming unpasteurized milk or contact with horses. Only one case has been reported where a human got sick after interacting with an infected dog.
No, Strep Throat in humans is caused by a different type of streptococcus bacteria called Streptococcus pyogenes. It’s not related to Strep zoo in dogs.
