CDC investigating after dog brought to US through O'Hare contracts rabies

WEST CHESTER, Pa. -- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is conducting a multi-state investigation after a dog brought to the United States from overseas through Chicago's O'Hare Airport contracted rabies.

The CDC said an international rescue group had brought the dog to the U.S. from Azerbaijan.

It was with 33 other dogs and a cat on a plane that landed at O'Hare on June 10.

That dog had been adopted by a family in Chester County, Pennsylvania, but, within days, it began behaving strangely.

"Sometimes it's a behavioral change, sometimes it's paralysis, oftentimes it's not the typical Cujo where they become aggressive and try to bite everything," said Dr. Rob Mowday, a veterinarian at West Chester Animal Emergency.

Health experts said cases like this are why it's so important to vaccinate your animals.

Vaccines are required for dogs to play at most dog parks, and owners said this is the only way to feel safe.

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"It's critical. I want her to be around as long as possible. She's part of the family," said Danny Reiner from Exton, Pennsylvania.

He's one of many pet owners there who said they had no idea there was a rabid dog in the county.

"I would like to know where the dog came from that caused that," said Michael Hart from West Goshen Township.

Dr. Mowday said the canine variant of rabies was eradicated in the U.S. 30 years ago, but it's still prevalent in other countries. It can be hard to detect at first because of a long incubation period.

"It can take up to six months from the time the dog is infected before they begin to show signs. So sometimes they may have even gotten vaccinated during that time period," he said.

According to the CDC, the dog was infected with rabies before it came to the U.S. The Pennsylvania Department of Public Health said the dog had to be euthanized. At this point, 13 people are known to have been exposed.

Dr. Mowday said the best way to protect yourself and your pet is to stay up-to-date on shots.

"That is the most important thing. The vaccines are very effective, and when you vaccinate your pet, you also protect yourself," he said.

State officials said if you were exposed to this animal you should contact Chester County's Health Department.