Adoptions and intakes paused

The Bill Atkinson Animal Welfare Center is pausing adoptions and intakes for dogs and puppies through Thursday, January 2 to prevent the spread of Streptococcus Zooepidemicus, known as Strep Zoo.

Symptoms in dogs are severe respiratory distress, nasal discharge, vomiting and rapid decline in health within 24 to 48 hours. Without timely intervention, it can be fatal. Treatment with antibiotics is effective since it is a bacterial infection. Early diagnosis is key.

Pet owners should monitor pets carefully for symptoms and seek immediate veterinary attention if symptoms arise. Strep Zoo is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can transfer between animals and humans, although human cases are very rare and associated with other underlying diseases or immunosuppression.

During this time, Gwinnett Animal Welfare and Enforcement will continue to process pet reclaims. The center will also continue to intake sick, injured, or aggressive animals for the safety of the community.