In Tyler, Texas, an 11-week-old puppy had to be humanely euthanized this week after having tested positive for rabies. The puppy had been a stray and when first brought to the Animal Medical Center of Tyler, veterinarians, the puppy had been exhibiting symptoms of diarrhea and vomiting. At the time, the puppy had tested negative for parvovirus, a contagious virus which in some cases can be successfully treated. The puppy then began to display neurological symptoms.
According to KltvNews, owner and veterinarian Dr. Lauren Cauthen, stated that rabies is a fatal disease which affects the brain tissue. Many dogs can get aggressive and try to bite. Tragically, once the dog presents with symptoms, there is no treatment or cure for rabies. The puppy was euthanized; his tissue sent for testing, and it came back positive.
No one can be sure where the puppy came in contact with rabies, but it was likely from an infected skunk or bat. The disease is contagious to humans and other animals so caution must be taken immediately.
Two of the veterinarian technicians had to receive the rabies vaccine protocols and are doing fine.
Puppies need to be vaccinated starting at 12-weeks of age, and Texas requires all puppies have the vaccine by 16-weeks of age. After that adult dogs are required to be vaccinated for rabies every three years. This is a completely preventable disease – please make sure your dogs are all vaccinated.
Rest in peace little one.
(Puppy in photo is not the puppy euthanized for rabies)
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