I am heartbroken by a recent incident that occurred in Cook County, where a puppy, who was adopted from Paws Chicago, but returned for behavior issues, was immediately euthanized and beheaded for rabies testing. This tragic event was particularly distressing because the dog was euthanized for behavior reasons only a few days after a bite incident, while the legal requirement is to wait 10 days.  Their litter mates are now at risk of the same brutality.

https://www.pawschicago.org/news-resources/news-features/paws-chicago-news/paws-chicago-news-item/showarticle/paws-chicago-official-statement-on-rabies-case-in-chicago-dog?fbclid=IwY2xjawO75p9leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA80MDk5NjI2MjMwODU2MDkAAR5HfmpApFxkcsodiEb_IMFBl8fq1hz6Cdlu1XQbMd9Ma5eXEJFn_yc5yWTSGg_aem_8XIA0XtRgA22NWjaYjzpsg

This dog was just a puppy.  It is shocking a puppy was euthanized for behavior issues, without other options being considered.  This unsettling situation highlights the urgent need for an end to behavior euthanasia, and a shift towards more humane practices in testing for rabies in animals.

An antemortem rabies test would reduce months of suffering.  This poor puppy had rabies for months.  They were likely born with rabies.  An antemortem rabies test would have prevented the puppy from suffering, and prevented others from months of exposure.  A live test could be routinely done for every single animal who comes in, thus eliminating the spread of rabies.

In particular, I'm advocating for the adoption of antemortem rabies testing for dogs, a practice already in use for humans.  As it stands, when a dog is suspected of having rabies, euthanasia is often performed prematurely for the sake of testing the brain postmortem for Negri bodies. This method is not only outdated but also undignified. While the animal tested positive for rabies, confirming euthanasia as humane in this case, it's crucial to remember that there are more respectful testing alternatives available.  https://rapidliverabiestest.wordpress.com/information-about-dyne-immune-rapid-live-test/

Currently, humans can be live tested for rabies through blood, saliva, cerebral spinal fluid, and nuchal biopsy tests. These methods could similarly be applied to dogs, ensuring they aren't unnecessarily put down before confirming the presence of the disease. By adopting these testing methods, we would be granting our canine companions the dignity they deserve.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and numerous veterinary experts have discussed the viability of antemortem testing in animals, citing it as both accurate and humane. Many neighboring regions have already paved the way by implementing these protocols, reflecting the growing consensus that such humane practices should be widely adopted.

It's time Cook County leads by example, adopting a humane and scientifically sound approach to rabies testing in dogs. I urge Cook County Animal Services and local lawmakers to prioritize the implementation of antemortem testing protocols for the safety and dignity of all dogs. By signing this petition, you're advocating for a more compassionate and respectful approach to animal welfare. Please join me in taking action against postmortem testing and in support of humane rabies testing for dogs in Cook County. Sign this petition and help create a change for a more compassionate future for our furry friends.