Streptococcus zooepidemicus, often referred to as Strep zoo, is a gram-positive bacterium from the Streptococcus genus that risks your dog’s health. It predominantly affects horses. And also it is a pathogen that can infect other animals, including dogs, cats, and cattle. In dogs, Streptococcus zooepidemicus can cause a range of health issues, from mild respiratory problems to severe, life-threatening infections.
Symptoms of Streptococcus Zooepidemicus in Dogs
Identifying Streptococcus zooepidemicus in dogs can be challenging because its symptoms vary. They depend on the severity and location of the infection. Sometimes symptoms may be mild and include:
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Nasal discharge
- Fever
These early signs are often mistaken for kennel cough or other common respiratory infections. As the infection progresses, the symptoms may become more severe and include:
- Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting
- Weight loss
- High fever
In severe cases, particularly where pneumonia has developed, symptoms can escalate to pneumonia, causing severe respiratory distress. Moreover, it can end up in Septic arthritis that make your dog lame and reluctant to move. You will also notice sudden collapses in your dog infected with this condition. Furthermore severe systemic inflammation is also unavoidable.
Research indicates that Streptococcus zooepidemicus respiratory disease can compromise lung function, leading to bleeding within the lungs and fluid accumulation around them. Early detection and treatment are essential for recovery, highlighting the importance of monitoring your dog’s health and behavior closely.
Causes of Streptococcus Zooepidemicus in Dogs

Streptococcus zooepidemicus is mainly spread through direct contact with infected animals or contaminated surfaces, such as bedding or water bowls. The bacterium thrives in environments with high animal density, such as kennels, shelters, and grooming facilities, making these settings high-risk areas for transmission.
Dogs with compromised immune systems—those that are very young, elderly, or suffering from other illnesses—are at a higher risk of infection. The incubation period for the bacteria is typically less than a week, but transmission can continue for several weeks.In fact, cases of transmission from dogs to humans are rare yet individuals with weakened immune systems should be cautious in advance. Practicing good hygiene and proper handling of infected animals is crucial in preventing the spread of the bacterium.
Treatments for Streptococcus Zooepidemicus in Dogs
Treatment for Streptococcus zooepidemicus depends on the severity of the infection and the affected organs. Diagnosis may involve blood tests, X-rays, and cultures from nasal or throat swabs. Based on the results, a veterinarian will recommend an appropriate treatment plan, which may include:
- Antibiotics: Streptococcus zooepidemicus, being a bacterial infection, is usually treated with antibiotics.There are some commonly prescribed antibiotics such as penicillin, amoxicillin, and cephalosporins for this disease. Yet, veterinarian may choose the antibiotic and prescribe its duration based on the needs of your dog.
- Supportive Care: Depending on the severity of the symptoms, your dog may need a supportive care that might be necessary. This can include fluid therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and rest to help the dog recover from the condition.
- Hospitalization: Pneumonia or septicemia is a severe symptom of Streptococcus Zooepidemicus, that might end up your dog with hospitalization. Perhaps your dog may require oxygen therapy and intravenous antibiotics.
Preventive measures are crucial in protecting your dog from Streptococcus zooepidemicus. Maintaining a clean environment and ensuring your pet’s overall health can help reduce the risk. While there is no specific vaccine for Streptococcus zooepidemicus in dogs, you have to somehow minimize your dog’s exposure to high-risk environments where your dog could encounter Streptococcus zooepidemicus. If you suspect your dog has been exposed to Streptococcus zooepidemicus or is showing concerning symptoms of Streptococcus , seek veterinary care immediately.