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Hernando Today

Lessons learned after rabies scare

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Hernando Today

Published: November 13, 2007

The article, "News of rabies eradication no cause for celebration," printed in The Tampa Tribune, Nov. 2, was of interest to all in our family because our son was bitten and scratched by a feral kitten on Oct. 10; and we were all caught up in the quest for knowledge in regard to rabies for the following 10-day waiting period.

We want to thank Hernando County Animal Services, especially David D'Arco who brought us the Havahart® traps to catch the mother and both kittens. Also Mark Springer of the Hernando County Health Department for his assistance. Both gentlemen gave us good information and kept in touch with us practically on a daily basis; and when we actually caught all three of the animals, they were as relieved as we were.

The 10-day observation period seemed endless; but when it was finally over, Mr. Springer called to let us know the kittens would be released for adoption.

Our thanks go not only to these two dedicated gentlemen, but to their staff at both agencies and also thanks to Dr. Sastry who saw our son on a couple of occasions helping allay his fear of rabies since her specialty is infectious diseases.

As the news article points out, canine rabies may nearly be eradicated; but rabies in other animals is very real – and can be real in feral animals because they have never been inoculated for the disease.
Please take unwanted animals to an agency that finds homes for unwanted cats and dogs rather than "dumping" them in various neighborhoods to fend for themselves. Better for all of us, and better for the animals, who deserve a chance to be loved and cared for properly.

L.A. Dowell, Spring Hill

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