Another skunk tests positive for rabies

Posted: Dec 21, 2010 3:52 PM by Greg Boyce

Another skunk has tested positive for rabies in Pueblo County. The latest skunk was found near Baxter Road along the Arkansas River east of Pueblo. This is the fourth skunk to test positive for rabies in Pueblo County in 2010.

"It is important for pet owners to protect their pets from rabies with a rabies vaccine. Look at your pet's tag or medical papers and make sure they have their current rabies vaccine," stated Dr. Christine Nevin-Woods. She added, "Skunks, that may have rabies, can be found near houses and interacting with people and pets."

If you see a skunk during daylight hours acting abnormally, such as stumbling or acting overly aggressive, you are advised to call Pueblo Animal Services at (719) 544-3005.

While rabies is most commonly found in bats, people and pets should avoid contact with skunks and other wild animals such as foxes or raccoons, since these animals may be rabid.

Here are some key rabies prevention steps:

Ensure that dogs, cats and ferrets are vaccinated properly against rabies by a licensed veterinarian.
Discuss vaccinating horses and other livestock with your veterinarian. If you believe your animal has been exposed to rabies, or possibly bitten by a rabid animal, immediately contact your veterinarian.
Don't feed wild animals or allow your pets around them. Teach children to stay away from wild mammals. Do not keep pet food outside as that may attract wild animals.
Protect all pets, particularly animals too young to be vaccinated, from contact with wild animals. Puppies and kittens should be vaccinated for rabies as early as three months old.
Contact your veterinarian if your dog or cat is bitten or scratched by wild animals, such as skunks, bats, foxes or raccoons.
If you or a family member has been bitten by a wild animal or a domestic animal, contact your physician and Pueblo Animal Services at 719-544-3005 immediately.