BEAUMONT— An Ellis County woman is suing Petsmart, alleging she contracted a dangerous disease from a purchased parakeet.
Tania Vojvodic filed a lawsuit Dec. 16 in Jefferson County District Court against Petsmart Inc and Rainbow Exotics Inc, alleging negligence.
According to the complaint, on May 10, 2014, Vojvodic purchased a parakeet from a Beaumont Petsmart and, based on the information received, the parakeet was raised and purchased by Petsmart from Rainbow Exotics.
The suit states the plaintiff began to feel unwell a short time after bringing the bird home. Vojvodic says she learned she had contracted psittacosis, a zoonotic airborne bacterial infection that caused her pain, discomfort and required medical expenses.
Additionally, the plaintiff alleges lost wages as a result.
Vojvodic seeks damages for physical pain and impairment, mental anguish, medical expenses, lost wages and earning capacity, as well as legal costs. She is represented by attorney Cody Rees of Rees Law Firm in Beaumont.
Jefferson County District Court Case number E-197944