PALM BEACH COUNTY, FL – The Palm Beach County Department of Public Safety’s Division of Animal Care and Control (ACC) has announced a temporary suspension of dog intakes, both for owner surrenders and strays, until Monday, December 18. This decision follows the emergence of three cases of Streptococcus equi zooepidemicus, commonly known as Strep Zo, which tragically resulted in the deaths of three dogs.

Under the advisement of Dr. Cynda Crawford, chair of Shelter Medicine at the University of Florida, ACC has halted the intake of dogs into the shelter for a minimum of three days post-therapy. This measure is to mitigate the risk of infection spread to other dogs. All animals in the facility have been quarantined, and dogs currently in the shelter are being treated with injectable and oral antibiotics, expected to eradicate the infection within 72 hours of the final dose.

This outbreak marks the first occurrence of this virulent pathogen at ACC. The department stresses the importance of awareness among local veterinarians, rescue organizations, and shelters regarding the presence of Strep Zo in the community. The temporary suspension of dog intakes is a precautionary step to ensure the safety and well-being of all dogs in the shelter and the broader community.

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Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News