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West Chester, Pennsylvania (WPVI) – The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is conducting a multistate investigation after a dog was brought into the United States for rabies abroad.
This dog was adopted by a family in Chester County, Pennsylvania. Health experts say cases like this are why it’s important to vaccinate your animals.
Vaccines are required for dogs to play at West Goshen Dog Park. The owners say this is the only way to feel safe.
“This is very important,” said Exton’s Danny Rayner. “I want her to be around as long as possible. She’s part of the family.”
He’s one of many pet owners who said they had no idea there was a rabid dog in the county.
“I’d like to know where the dog that caused this came from,” said Michael Hart of West Goshen.
The CDC says an international rescue group brought the dog to the United States from Azerbaijan.
He was with 33 other dogs and cats on a plane that landed at Chicago O’Hare International Airport on June 10.
She was then adopted by a family in East Whiteland Township, but within days began to behave strangely.
“Sometimes it’s a behavioral change, sometimes it’s paralysis, and a lot of times it’s not typical kojo style where they get aggressive and try to bite everything,” said Dr. Rob Moody, veterinarian at West Chester Animal Hospital.
Dr. Moody says the canine type of rabies was eradicated in the United States 30 years ago, but it is still prevalent in other countries. It may be difficult to detect at first due to the long incubation period.
“It can take up to six months from the time a dog is infected before symptoms start showing up. So sometimes they may have been vaccinated during that time period,” he said.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the dog contracted rabies before coming to the United States. The PA Ministry of Public Health says the dog had to be euthanized. At this point, 13 people are known to have been exposed to the virus.
Dr. Moody says the best way to protect yourself and your pet is to stay up to date with the shots.
“That’s the most important thing,” he said. “Vaccines are very effective and when you vaccinate your pet, you also protect yourself.”
State officials say that if you are exposed to this animal, you should contact the Chester County Health Department.
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