Over the past year, a horse in Franktown was suspected of Rabies, but not confirmed. A horse was confirmed to have rabies in Black Forest.  Various skunks tested positive including one found at Gartrell and 470.  Three foxes tested positive this summer in Woodmoor (in Monument, CO) proving it is moving to different species. 

There are always bats in the area carrying the rabies virus.  The concern being that it has spread to ground animals and is spreading to different species within the ground animals.  This number of positive cases seen in so many different species has not been seen in this area in many decades.  It is an important time to make sure that our pets are vaccinated - all of them.  Also, that we are being diligent in keeping away from strange wildlife. 

Be wary of wildlife that is exhibiting strange behavior such as not showing fear of people, coming out at the wrong time of day, or acting aggressively.  The health departments do not routinely test animals unless they have reason to believe the animal may have bitten a person or pet.

Rabies is passed through the saliva of an infected individual through a bite or through the saliva entering into wounds or mucous membranes.  There is no cure once symptoms appear - vaccination is the best prevention.

·         Don’t feed wild animals or allow your pets around them. Be sure to teach children to stay away from wild mammals.

·         Contact your veterinarian if your dog or cat is bitten or scratched by a wild animal, such as a skunk, bat, fox or raccoon.

·         If you suspect you’ve been exposed to rabies, contact your physician without delay. 

·         If you must remove a dead skunk on your property, wear rubber gloves or lift the carcass with a shovel or other tool, and double-bag it for the trash.

·         Do not allow pet dogs or cats to roam freely, as this increases the chance they may be exposed without your knowledge. Keep dogs in a fenced in yard.

·         Take precautions when camping, hunting or fishing. Avoid sleeping on the open ground without the protection of a closed tent or camper. Keep pets on a leash and do not allow them to wander.

For more information, check your local health department, or this CDC website: http://www.cdc.gov/rabies/

Please call us at Parker Center Animal Clinic with any questions at 303-841-8833.