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Dog breeder violates quarantine order; buyers beware

MADISON — Officials from the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection warned that several dogs of varying breeds were released form a dog breeding facility in Wisconsin Dells currently licensed to William Myers. The premises had been quarantined since June 28, 2012 after dogs tested positive for Brucellosis, an infectious disease that causes illness in dogs and sometimes in humans.

“Seven puppies that we are aware of were removed from the property after the quarantine order was issues,” said Yvonne Bellay, a DATCP veterinarian. “Anyone who has purchased or otherwise receive a dog from the Myers’ premises should 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.”

Bellay urges dog owners who may have received or purchased a dog from the Myers’ property since June 28 to contact Jeff Hare, DATCP compliance officer at (608) 224-4900 and should have the dog tested for Brucellosis 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.

Brucellosis is transmitted by the mating of infected males and females and causes infertility in both genders. Dogs may appear healthy with no signs of illness, but the disease commonly causes aborted litters.

Humans become infected by coming in direct contact with an infected dog or with the dog’s fluids that are contaminated with these bacteria. Symptoms in humans may include fever, sweats, headaches, back pains and physical weakness. Severe infections of the central nervous system or lining of the heart may also occur. Brucellosis can also cause long-lasting or chronic symptoms that include recurrent fevers, joint pain and fatigue.