Skunk tests positive for rabies after spraying dog in Lafayette – CBS Denver

BOULDER COUNTY, Colorado (CBS4) – A skunk tested positive for rabies after spraying a dog last week in Lafayette. Residents found the dead skunk in their backyard and contacted animal control officers who notified Boulder County Public Health.

The resident reported that his dog was sprayed by the skunk before the skunk died. Health officials said the dog has already been vaccinated against rabies and is currently under home observation for 45 days.

According to BCPH, rabid skunks have become a “major source” of rabies in eastern Colorado and the Front Range. Raccoons and foxes can also carry the disease, which can spread to pets.

“Ensuring that rabies vaccinations are up to date for dogs, cats, horses and livestock is the most important and effective way to protect animals and humans from rabies,” said Marshall Lipps, environmental health specialist from BCPH. “Unfortunately, unvaccinated rabies animals that come into contact with a rabid animal may need to be euthanized or placed in a four-month quarantine at the owner’s expense.”

BCPH has published the following recommendations to reduce the risk of exposure to rabies:

• DO NOT handle unfamiliar, wild or domestic animals, even if they appear friendly. Contact Animal Control to recover the animal.
• Wash any animal injury thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical attention immediately.
• Keep vaccinations up to date for all dogs, cats, ferrets and horses.
• Maintain control of pets by keeping cats and ferrets indoors and keeping dogs under direct supervision.
• Teach children to leave wildlife alone.
• Do not leave pet food or feed in areas accessible to wildlife.
• If a person or pet has been bitten or has been in contact with a skunk or wildlife, seek medical attention immediately, then contact your local animal control agency or Boulder County Public Health Department to arrange a rabies test.

For more information on rabies, visit BoulderCountyVector.org or call 303-441-1564.