"We have had two confirmed cases of psittacosis at PetSmart stores in Hiram and Woodstock. There have also been confirmed cases at the dealer, Preferred Birds of Milton, Florida, that supplied birds to all the stores we are quarantining," said Commissioner Irvin.

"PetSmart had already begun a quarantine, but the quarantine did not meet all state requirements. We are requiring PetSmart and Superpetz to move the birds away from the public and to begin using medicated feed to treat the birds. The quarantine will last 45 days or until released by our State Veterinarian," said Commissioner Irvin.

The quarantine applies only to birds sold at the stores, not to other animals.

Source: Georgia Department of Agriculture.