Rabies Virus Detected in Dead Dog - Rabies case in Germany sparks investigation into illegal animal import

A dog in Germany's Rhein-Pfalz district has tested positive for rabies. The animal from the animal kingdom was bought through an online platform from a Russian organisation. It travelled with other animals across several European countries before arriving in Germany. Authorities now suspect its age was falsified and that its import papers may have belonged to a different animal, raising concerns about missing rabies vaccinations.

After displaying behavioural changes, the dog was placed in isolation. It later died, and tests confirmed the presence of the rabies virus. The disease spreads through saliva, usually via bites.

Veterinary officials have traced and contacted all known exposures, confirming no further risk to other animals in the area. Meanwhile, criminal police are examining whether animal health laws were broken during the import process.

Germany has had no confirmed rabies cases in animals since 2008. No reports of the disease were recorded in 2023.

The investigation continues into the dog's import and potential regulatory breaches. Authorities have ruled out wider risks to local animals. Rabies remains officially eradicated in Germany's terrestrial animal population.