Two dogs were shocked two weeks ago from walking on a manhole in River North. Another was shocked by a metal pole on the West Side.
Two of the incidents occurred the same day at the 600 block of North Dearborn Street. The first dog was reported to be in good condition, but the second unfortunately died. Both of these dogs were medium to large sized animals.
The third dog brushed against a metal pole in the West Side met a similar fate. The three-year-old dog began seizing after getting shocked and was rushed to the vet. Thankfully, he is in stable condition, but long term affects are still unknown.
While there is still no answer to the dog in the West Side, the River North incidents have been resolved. There was a pinched wire underneath the sidewalk that caused the manhole to be electrically live. ComEd was sent out alongside city crews to fix the problem. However, people still feel uneasy.
People should be safe from any shocking injuries as shoe soles contain rubber to stop the current. However, veterinarians are urging owners to put boots on their dog to protect them from any electrical currents.
CDOT has issued an official statement regarding the incident:
"CDOT's Division of Electrical Operations takes stray voltage very seriously.
A crew was immediately dispatched once alerted to the incident at Ontario and Dearborn, and made the necessary repairs to ensure the area is safe. Stray voltage, while rare, can pose a hidden and unpredictable danger.
Because it's invisible and difficult to detect, for pet safety owners should prevent their animals from directly touching metal objects such as light poles and manhole covers. This is particularly important during winter when snow melts and salt can increase the conductivity of these surfaces.
If concerned, residents are encouraged to report the location to the city via 311."