(KNX 1070) -- Officials in Iowa are warning dog owners about the outbreak of a disease that can be passed from dogs to humans
Dr. Jeff Kaisand, the state veterinarian, has confirmed several cases of "canine Brucellosis" have been found in a commercial small-dog breeding facility in Marion County, Iowa.
In a statement released Friday from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, officials say they are, "in the process of notifying the individuals who have custody of the exposed dogs." Adding that, "Both the animals and the facilities are quarantined while the dogs undergo clinical testing."
The "zoonotic" based illness means that it can be transmitted from one animal to people or other types of animals, and is spread through reproductive fluids.
For dogs, the disease can cause infertility, spontaneous abortions, and stillbirths. For humans, the symptoms include fever, sweats, headache, joint pain and weakness.
Kaisand recommends that people who've bought a small dog from Marion County should get their pet tested, and any pet owners who've come in contact with animals are being reminded to wash their hands regularly.
"The threat to most pet owners is considered very low," a release reads from Iowa Dept. of Agriculture and Land Stewardship reads. "Dog breeders, veterinary staff and anyone who comes in contact with blood, tissues, and fluids during the birthing process may be at higher risk and should consult their primary care physician."
The disease is most common in kennels and breeding facilities, the Iowa Department of Public Health said.
A De Soto, Iowa-based animal adoption service posted the below message on Friday on their Facebook page about the disease. AHeinz57 Pet Rescue and Transport reported that a Knoxville, Iowa, breeder had dogs that tested positive for the disease. A call to the rescue's owner, Amy Heinz, has not yet been returned.
"This is just one more reason to ADOPT and not SHOP! Please pray for our sweet babies that were finally getting the chance to have a happy life," the post reads.