The Barking Death

Originally Aired: March 1, 1954 Suspense #541, "The Barking Death," presents a terrifying race against time when a rabid dog escapes from a health center laboratory. Dr. Paul Miller discovers that thieves who broke in to steal microscopes and medical equipment have also inadvertently taken a black and white spotted mongrel that was being tested after biting a local man named Garrison. With rabies being 100% fatal once symptoms appear, Miller must alert the entire community of 25,000 residents to the deadly threat now loose on their streets. As police, health officials, and concerned citizens mobilize, tensions rise. Mrs. Stone and other townspeople question whether the publicity will cause unnecessary panic, but Dr. Miller grimly educates them with footage of a child suffering from the disease. Meanwhile, the petty thief Cliff has grown attached to his new "poochie," unaware of the danger he's carrying. As the hunt intensifies through neighborhoods and hills, the clock ticks toward a tragic outcome if the infected animal bites again before it can be found.