PAWS says Killua tested positive for rabies, to pursue case vs suspected killer

The Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) on Monday said the body of Killua, the three-year-old golden retriever in Bato, Camarines Sur whose killing riled netizens and animal rights advocates, has tested positive for the rabies virus. 

In a statement, PAWS urged those who may have been scratched or bitten by Killua to immediately get post-exposure shots.

“This includes pet owner Vina Arazas who hugged the bloodied body of her beloved dog when she found him at a known dog slaughter area in Sta Cruz, Bato, Camarines Sur,” the group said. 

However, PAWS clarified the rabies test results “may not be accurate due to the fact that the body had already been buried for five days prior to testing and may have been contaminated from being in an area where many stray dogs have already been slaughtered.”

“PAWS is making this announcement to ensure that any bites or scratches will be reported promptly in the interest of public health and safety,” it said. 

The Bureau of Animal Industry Manual of Procedure for Rabies states that the standard protocol for an animal suspected to be afflicted with rabies is for it to “be observed for 14 days or, in case of highly suspected rabies cases, be humanely euthanized with no damage to the head.”

Criminal charges

Meanwhile, PAWS said it would continue to pursue filing criminal charges against the man suspected of killing Killua for violating Republic Act (RA) 8485, or the Animal Welfare Act of 1998 and RA 982 or the Anti-Rabies Act for allegedly engaging in the dog meat trade. 

Based on CCTV footage, Killua was seen jumping from their house's roof after scaling it past 5 a.m. on Sunday. The dog then allegedly attacked a resident, prompting the man to chase the dog and beat it to death. The man also claimed Killua bit his leg. 

The suspect allegedly brought the dog to a slaughterhouse and dog meat cooking trade and reportedly owns a carinderia business selling meat viands near the dog slaughter area. 

PAWS urged those who may have consumed dog meat near the area where Killua’s body was found to get post exposure shots. 

“They are at great risk. Dog meat traders are not only cruel people but pose a serious threat to public health,” PAWS said. —Sundy Locus/KBK, GMA Integrated News