Sutter Creek, CA…Amador County Public Health and Animal Control Departments remind residents that rabies in wildlife continues to pose a risk to pets and people. In September 2022, a fox tested positive for rabies after contact with dogs in an unincorporated area outside of Plymouth. Due to contact with this fox, the dogs are on quarantine.

“Rabies vaccinations and awareness are the best defense,” states Evan Jacobs, Amador County Animal
Control Director. “Owners need to remember the importance of keeping their pets current with rabies
vaccination to keep their pets and families safe. If exposed to potentially rabid wildlife, their pets should
get a booster dose within 48 hours.” Indoor animals should also receive this vaccine as bats can be
discovered by pets in the home.

In addition to vaccination, there are several things Amador residents can do to protect themselves and
their pets:
 Avoid contact with wildlife and animals you do not know. If you or your pets have contact with
wildlife, contact Animal Control.

 If you are bitten:
o Wash the bite thoroughly with soap and water.
o Seek medical attention.
o Contact Amador County Animal Control, so the wildlife can be tested.

 Contact Animal Control and your veterinarian if your pet was exposed to a skunk, bat, raccoon,
fox or other wildlife.

 If a bat is inside your home, do NOT let it out. Close off the room to confine it and contact Animal
Control for testing.

Rabies is a deadly disease that kills both animals and humans. The rabies virus is almost always fatal. The only treatment is prevention. In California, bats, skunks, raccoons and foxes are the most frequent carriers of rabies. For more information on rabies and pet vaccination, contact your veterinarian or Amador County Animal Control at (209) 223-6378.

Rabies information may also be found on the Animal Control website: https://www.amadorgov.org/departments/animal-control/rabies-information.
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