News Release                            For Immediate Release

                                                                                                                     January 25, 2008

Rabies Investigation - Update

Anyone who purchased a puppy from the Chesley location of the “Pets R Us”, also known as “Feed Me More Pets”, in the period from January 3, 2008 to present, is asked to contact the Grey Bruce Health Unit at 519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456. There is a potential, that during the period, other pups at the Chesley location may have been exposed to infectious animals.

This is part of an on-going investigation into a rabid puppy sold at a Toronto area flea market. The investigation involves exposure to puppies originating from a litter in Perth County, transported and housed at the Chesley location, and subsequently sold January 13, 2008. Toronto, Peel, and York Health Units are seeking potential contacts at the flea market. Perth District Health Unit is investigating the source of the litter.

Public Health reminds people to purchase animals from a reliable breeder/vendor and be sure of the animal’s immunization status. When purchasing puppies, find out the immunization status of the mother dog. 

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For more information:
Karen Sweiger
Manager Rabies Program
Grey Bruce Health Unit
519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456 ext. 230