A dog breeder near Wisconsin Dells has violated a state-imposed quarantine, and the state’s Animal Health Division is advising anyone who purchased a puppy from the facility to be aware of the quarantine and the disease that the dog has potentially been exposed to, especially if the dog is intended for breeding purposes.
Seven puppies were released from William Myers’ breeding facility in Adams County, after other dogs there tested positive for a fertility disease. The quarantine was imposed on June 28th when the dogs were found to have Brucella canis (brucellosis), which can cause infertility in canines.
Dr. Yvonne Bellay, program veterinarian with the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection, urges dog owners who may have received or purchased a dog from Myers since June 28 to contact the Division of Animal Health, and to have the dog tested for Brucella canis by a licensed veterinarian. Bellay also advised that buyers may have done business with Myers’ associate, Sharon Richards, who may also use the name Sharon Lambrecht.
The disease can be treated – but if left unchecked, humans can contract brucellosis through contact with the infected pets and their fluids.