Disease Breaks Out at Santa Maria Animal Center

The Santa Barbara County Public Health Department announced Friday that in recent weeks some dogs, staff, and volunteers at the Santa Maria Animal Center have experienced an undiagnosed skin condition accompanied by an itchy rash. According to a press release from the county’s public health department, veterinary staff reported the rash may be caused by a fungal infection, which the county said would be easily treated once diagnosed.

Fungal test results are pending, people and dogs suffering from the rash have been seen by their doctors and vets, and a treatment plan has been developed for animals who may have been exposed, the County Public Health Department reported.