Toronto officials issue public alert for rabies

Rabid puppy at flea market sale may have exposed public to danger

Last Updated: Thursday, January 24, 2008 | 7:07 AM ET

CBC News

Public health officials in Toronto are issuing an alert after a puppy bought at a large indoor flea market tested positive for rabies.

The eight-week-old border collie was purchased at Dr. Flea's near Albion Road and Highway 27 on Jan. 13.

After noticing something unusual, the dog's new owner brought the puppy to the Toronto Humane Society where it later died. Tests revealed it had rabies.

A Humane Society worker bitten by the dog is being vaccinated.

Health officials are asking people to get in touch at 416-338-7600 if they petted or bought a puppy from the seller, whose booth number was 1513. The vendor sold as many as 12 others puppies that day.

About 60 people who were possibly exposed have already been contacted.

Health officials have also notified the dog's breeder, who is from the Grey-Bruce area.

Rabies, which can be fatal if untreated, can be spread through saliva, bites, cuts or scratches.