(NPR) The U.S. Bans Importing Dogs From 113 Countries After A Rise In False Rabies Records

The U.S. Bans Importing Dogs From 113 Countries After A Rise In False Rabies Records

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The infectious and contagious rabies virus, shown here in a colorized micrograph, can be transmitted to humans through the bite or saliva of an infected animal. Thanks to protective vaccination of pets, rabies was eliminated from the U.S. dog population in 2007, though a bite from infected bats, skunks, and raccoons can still transmit the virus.



Biophoto Associ./Science Source


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Biophoto Associ./Science Source

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The U.S. Bans Importing Dogs From 113 Countries After A Rise In False Rabies Records

A surge in pet adoptions has increased demand for dogs imported from around the world. Most are fine, but federal officials turned up 450 dogs in 2020 with false records — 50% more than in 2019.