Two Rabid Skunks In Two Weeks In Hurst
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HURST (CBSDFW.COM) - Hurst Animal Services responded to a report of a skunk in the 100 block of Montreal Drive Sunday.
The responding animal services officer found the skunk had traveled to a yard in the 100 block of Springhill Drive and died.
The carcass was collected and tested positive for rabies through the Texas Department of State Health Services lab in Austin. This was the second skunk from Hurst to test positive for rabies within a two week period.
Vaccination of all cats and dogs is required by state law and is the first line of defense against human infection.
Hurst Animal Services is urging every cat and dog owner to have all of their animals vaccinated and to keep vaccinations up to date.
Hurst Animal Services is reminding residents that anyone who has contact with wild animals should use caution. Carefully observe any pets that may have been in contact with any wild animal. Residents are advised to always keep their pets under personal control and observation when outside.
Anyone observing any animal they suspect to be rabid should avoid contact.
Common symptoms of rabies include, but are not limited to: lethargy, fever, vomiting, anorexia, full or partial paralysis, seizures, excessive salivation, aggression, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or other abnormal behavior.
Anyone believing they have observed or come in contact with any animal they believe may be rabid should contact Hurst Animal Services 817-788-7216 or the Texas Department of State Health Services Zoonosis Control Program at 512-776-7255. For additional information, please contact: Hurst Animal Services 817.788.7216
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