San Diego Humane Society Faces Unprecedented Double Threat – Exclusive Interview with CEO Reveals Shocking Details!
Dealing with a single infectious pathogen circulating among animals poses a significant challenge, but the San Diego Humane Society now faces a dual threat, one of which is entirely novel to their experience.
“This specific pathogen, streptococcus zooepidemicus, is entirely new for us. We acknowledge its existence, but its severity is unprecedented,” stated Dr. Gary Weitzman, President & CEO of the San Diego Humane Society.
Pathogen
Dr. Gary Weitzman, President, and CEO of the San Diego Humane Society, discussed the challenges posed by the new pathogen in an interview with KPBS reporter John Carroll on November 14, 2023.
Weitzman revealed that there are currently 1,800 dogs housed across the Humane Society’s five campuses, a number he emphasized should ideally be reduced by half. As a veterinarian, Weitzman linked the overcrowded conditions to the rapid spread of the disease.
The situation has prompted the Humane Society to temporarily halt dog surrenders, preventing individuals from dropping off pets they can no longer care for until early December due to the risk of pathogen transmission.
Weitzman acknowledged that the spread of the pathogens could occur in various settings, emphasizing the need to address overcrowding in all shelters and dog kennels. Fortunately, swift administration of antibiotics has proven effective in eliminating the pathogens, providing relief to infected dogs within a day.
Despite this positive development, the challenge of overcrowding persists. With over 100 puppies in their care, the Humane Society faces high demand, particularly for these young animals. However, Weitzman encouraged potential adopters to consider adult and senior dogs, pointing out that older dogs adapt quickly and often come already trained.
While the Humane Society grapples with these challenges, Weitzman assured the public that the organization is ready to assist with the necessary resources for pet care.
