RABIES STATUS INDETERMINATE FOR DOG IN OCT. 6 ATTACK

Smyrna, DE (October 13, 2014) - A rabies test was found "indeterminate" October 8 for the dog that bit two family members on October 6 on Bennett Street in Wilmington. The Delaware Public Health (DPH) Laboratory could not provide rabies test results because the brain sample required could not be obtained after the dog was shot in the head by Wilmington Police officers to stop the attack. The dog had been vaccinated for rabies. DPH advised the bite victims to discuss rabies preventive treatment with their health care provider.

The 80-pound dog was an unneutered male with blue body color and white feet. Anyone who may have been bitten by this dog prior to this attack should contact their health provider. Because the dog was typically housed indoors, the likelihood of previous attacks is low.

The Division of Public Health's Office of Animal Welfare (OAW) recommends neutering as a way to reduce dog bites. "The majority of dog bites involve unneutered animals. Neutered dogs are less likely to develop aggression problems, preventing potential attacks," said Hetti Brown, OAW director.

Other benefits of neutering and spaying include:

• No more heat cycles for spayed females, and no urge for neutered males to roam to find a female in heat.
• Elimination of unwanted litters, which means fewer homeless cats and dogs in shelters and outdoors.
• Prevention of testicular cancer in males, and uterine infections and breast cancer in females.

For more information on rabies prevention, go to www.dhss.delaware.gov/dph/dpc/rabies.html.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations. DPH, a division of DHSS, urges Delawareans to make healthier choices with the 5-2-1 Almost None campaign: eat 5 or more fruits and vegetables each day, have no more than 2 hours of recreational screen time each day (includes TV, computer, gaming), get 1 or more hours of physical activity each day, drink almost no sugary beverages.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.