Girl Takes Shots To Save Bear Cub

A seven-year-old girl bitten on the finger by a black bear cub is getting seven rabies shots - each with a five-inch needle - to save the animal’s life.

“I just didn’t want that cute baby bear to die,” said Juliette Harris. “He’s so small.”

Juliette came across the cub she’s named “Stubby” on May 5 while walking in the woods. She was lugging the 8-pound cub home for a pet when it bit her finger. She bled but did not need stitches.

Juliette led state health officials to the cub, and they said it would have to be killed and examined for rabies.

That’s when Juliette began to bargain. She agreed to take the rabies shots so the bear could be saved.

“Those needles hurt - but not that bad,” said Juliette.

The female cub was being cared for by Gila Wildlife Rescue of Silver City.