Urgent Appeal for Two Good Samaritans Who Risked Their Lives by Leaving a Rabid Cat at NY Animal Hospital

In a startling turn of events, health officials in Westchester County are urging two unnamed individuals to step forward after they dropped off a rabid cat at a Yonkers animal hospital last week. These good Samaritans may now be at risk of contracting a fatal disease that is always lurking in the shadows: rabies.

Captured on surveillance footage, the duo arrived at the Yonkers Animal Hospital on Saw Mill River Road around 4:30 PM on December 12, with a mission to help an injured feline apparently struck by a car. However, they left without providing their names, raising serious concerns about the potential exposure to rabies. The cat later tested positive for the deadly virus, sparking alarm among local health authorities.

County Health Commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler has urged the good Samaritans to come forward, highlighting that while rabies is fatal, it is also 100% preventable with timely post-exposure treatment. “If you see an injured or sick animal, call the authorities. Teach your children to never approach unknown animals, no matter how friendly they may appear. An immediate report is crucial if they get bitten or scratched,” she emphasized.

Rabies is a viral disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans, and if left untreated, it can lead to death. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals that around 60,000 Americans receive treatment annually after potential exposure to rabid animals—a statistic that is both alarming and significant.

The county officials are not only concerned about the welfare of the good Samaritans but also about the unusual behaviors that can indicate rabies in animals. These include aggression or an unnatural tameness, loss of fear of humans, and, in severe cases, staggering and foaming at the mouth.

Health authorities are taking this situation seriously, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the signs of rabies in both animals and humans. "It's imperative that we find these individuals to provide them with the necessary medical advice and care," Dr. Amler warned, adding an air of urgency to their call for action.

In a world where acts of kindness can sometimes lead to unforeseen dangers, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the critical need for awareness regarding animal health and safety. If you have any information about the good Samaritans or find yourself in a similar situation, never hesitate to seek professional help. Your health and safety depend on it!