A rabid dog has been reported in Autauga County, one week after reports of a rabid fox attacking a person with pets in the same area.
The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) said a dog bit a resident near County Road 81 and County Road 57, north of the Booth Community.
That’s several miles west of the area where the fox attack was confirmed last week, near Wood Valley Ridge, between Prattville and the Interstate 65 interchange.
According to ADPH, the dog had been seen by homeowners occasionally, but was not tame enough to pet or capture. The dog bite occurred on the victim’s porch steps, after the dog exhibited some aggression to the residents as well as their pets. The dog was subsequently euthanized and tested, and the victim is seeking medical attention.
State Public Health Veterinarian Dr. Dee W Jones said the two incidents should serve as a “stern reminder that all pets should be properly vaccinated against rabies, given the circumstances of two rabid animals now in the same general area.”
Alabama state law requires that dogs, cats and ferrets 12 weeks of age and older be current with rabies vaccination. Rabies vaccines are also available for horses and other livestock if recommended by a veterinarian.
Area residents are being advised to not allow pets to run loose, and refrain from leaving uneaten pet food or scraps near residences. In addition, don’t illegally feed or keep wildlife as pets, or approach wildlife or domestic animals that are acting in a strange or unusual manner. Children should avoid any stray or wild animal, regardless of its behavior.
The Autauga County rabies officer will be holding reduced fee vaccinations on Saturday at various locations throughout Autauga County. The fee for rabies vaccination is $12 per animal. For specific locations and times, call (334) 365-7543.
You may also contact ADPH at (334) 206-5969 or through the website.
