San Andreas, CA…A recent case of rabies in a dog has prompted Calaveras County Public Health and Animal Services to remind residents that rabies in wildlife and domestic animals continues to pose a risk to pets and people. Multiple wildlife in Calaveras County have tested positive for rabies this year. In November, 2016, a dog tested positive for rabies in Calaveras County. The source of the exposure is unknown. The dog did not have current vaccination to provide protection from the rabies virus. Due to contact with this animal, several people are being treated as a preventative measure. These individuals have NOT tested positive for rabies.

“Rabies vaccinations and awareness are the best defense” says Henning Schreiber, Animal Services Manager. “Owners need to remember the importance of having their pets vaccinated and to follow-up with required boosters as recommended by their veterinarian to keep their pets and families safe.” 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 Calaveras County residents can do to protect themselves and their pets.

• Avoid contact with wildlife and animals you do not know.

• If you are bitten:
-Wash the bite thoroughly with soap and water
-Seek medical attention
-Contact Animal Services so the wildlife can be tested

• Contact Animal Services and your veterinarian if your pet has been exposed to a skunk, bat, raccoon or other wildlife.

• If a bat is in your home and there is a chance it was in a room with a child, or had contact with another person or pet, do NOT let it out. Contact Animal Services for testing.

Rabies is a deadly disease that can be transferred from animals to humans. The rabies virus is almost always fatal. In California, bats, skunks, raccoons, and foxes are the most frequent carriers of rabies. The only treatment is prevention.

Keeping your pets current on their rabies vaccinations is the best way to protect your pets. Calaveras Animal Services will be holding a Rabies Vaccination Clinic on December 11th, 2016. Please call (209) 754-6509 for more information. In addition the time and location will be posted on the Calaveras County Animal Services Facebook page and the County website @ http://animal.calaverasgov.us/