What was supposed to be a routine errand at the PetSmart in the Hamilton Crossings shopping center near Allentown turned painful on May 3, when a shopper was bitten by a dog inside the store. The customer suffered wounds to the right leg and right thumb and later went to a nearby hospital, where medical staff started rabies treatment because the dog's vaccination status was unknown. Pennsylvania State Police say they are investigating and are asking anyone with information to come forward.
What police say
According to the Pennsylvania State Police, the incident happened around 12:30 p.m. on May 3 at the PetSmart at 707 North Krocks Road in Lower Macungie Township. Troopers say the dog bit the shopper while both were in the store's dog collar aisle. When the victim pushed the animal away, it then bit the shopper's right thumb. Store employees approached and offered help as the woman and the dog left the building, details first reported by NBC10 Philadelphia.
Rabies risk and follow-up
Because no one could immediately confirm the dog's vaccination status, medical staff began rabies post-exposure treatment for the victim. Post-exposure prophylaxis can include human rabies immune globulin and a multi-dose vaccine series, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In Pennsylvania, health-care providers must report animal bites to public-health authorities, and local officials may order quarantine or testing of the animal to determine rabies risk, the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture notes. Anyone who is bitten is advised to clean the wound, seek prompt medical attention, and keep any information that might help authorities identify the animal.
Investigators seek witnesses
Investigators described the dog as a black pitbull/bulldog mix and urged anyone who saw the incident or knows the dog and its owner to contact police, according to NBC10 Philadelphia. Authorities have not released additional information about the owner or whether the dog was later quarantined. Police say the investigation is still active.
How shoppers and owners can avoid bites
Veterinarians and public-health groups say a few basic habits can significantly cut down the risk of dog bites in public spaces like pet stores. Recommendations include keeping dogs on short, sturdy leashes, closely supervising interactions with unfamiliar animals, and teaching children to ask before approaching a dog and to avoid hugging or crowding it. The American Veterinary Medical Association and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provide more detailed tips on preventing bites and handling pets responsibly. Store workers and customers who see a dog acting aggressively or unpredictably are encouraged to alert staff and, if needed, local authorities right away.
