Rabies Alert: First Chicago Dog Case Since 1964

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) recently confirmed a rare and serious case of rabies in a dog in Chicago. While rabies is commonly found in Illinois bats, this is the first time a dog has tested positive in Cook County in over 60 years, and the first in the state since 1994.

At Veterinary Specialty Center, we want to ensure our clients have the facts about this situation and know how to keep their families and pets safe.

The Recent Case: What Happened?

The dog, a puppy under one year old, was adopted by a Chicago family from a local rescue. It was part of a litter transferred to Chicago in May 2025 from a rescue group in Georgia and Alabama.

• Behavioral Changes: Throughout its life, the dog exhibited behavioral issues that intensified on December 16, including growling, snapping, increased barking, and anxiety.
• Vaccination Status: The dog was vaccinated for rabies in June 2025. Because the exposure source is still under investigation, officials believe the dog may have been exposed to a rabid animal before it was vaccinated.
• Diagnosis: The dog was euthanized on December 18 due to its behavior. Because it had bitten someone on December 11, state law required rabies testing, which came back positive on December 19.

Public Health Response

The Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) is currently evaluating 13 individuals who had direct contact with the dog to provide post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). Additionally, officials are tracking the dog’s littermates and other pets it may have contacted, including those at a local doggy daycare.

What You Need to Know to Keep Your Pet Safe

1. Keep Vaccinations Current: This case is a stark reminder that rabies is nearly 100% fatal but 100% preventable. Ensure all dogs and cats are up-to-date on their rabies shots. Even if your pet was vaccinated recently, a booster is often required if they are exposed to a suspect animal.
2. Recognize the Symptoms: Rabies symptoms in animals can vary and aren’t always “foaming at the mouth.” Watch for:

• Sudden aggression or extreme irritability.
• Restlessness and hypersensitivity to light or sound.
• Excessive drooling or difficulty swallowing.
• Weakness or inability to raise the head.

3. If an Exposure Occurs: If your pet is bitten by another animal or comes into contact with a bat:

• Don’t wait: Contact your veterinarian immediately.
• Booster: Animals current on their vaccines should receive a booster and undergo a 45-day home observation period.
• Reporting: All animal bites must be reported to your local animal control office per Illinois law.

4. Exercise Caution with Rescues: The incubation period for rabies is typically 20–60 days but can last up to a year. When adopting a pet with an unknown history, monitor their behavior closely and ensure they receive a veterinary exam and vaccinations as soon as possible.

Our Commitment to You

We understand that news of a rabies detection in our community can be deeply concerning. At Veterinary Specialty Center, we share your priority: the safety and well-being of your family and your cherished pets. Our medical team remains vigilant and is here to provide you with compassionate, expert guidance should you ever face the stress of a bite or a potential exposure.

Navigating public health concerns can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. We work in close, seamless partnership with local animal control jurisdictions and public health officials to ensure full compliance with all state and federal safety laws. If you need immediate advice following an incident, we are here to support you with the care and professionalism you deserve.

Unsure if your pet is due for their rabies shot? Be sure to call your pet’s primary care veterinarian to confirm their status or to schedule an appointment.