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 2014, a cat tested positive for rabies after erratic behavior was reported to Animal Control. This feline was vaccinated with a one-year vaccine 2 years ago, but was not given the required booster to maintain protection from the rabies virus. Due to contact with this animal, two people are being treated with post-exposure prophytasis as a preventive measure. These individuals have NOT tested positive for rabies.

"Pet Vaccinations and awareness are the best defense," states Kelly Reason, Amador County Animal Control Director. "Owners need to remember the importance of having their pets vaccinated and to follow up with required boosters to keep their pets and families safe." Indoor animals should also receive this vaccine as bats can be discovered by bets 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 are bitten: Wash the bite thoroughly with soap and water, seek medical attention, contact Animal County Animal Control, so the wildlife can be tested.

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

Rabies is a deadly disease that kills both animals and humans. When untreated, the rabies virus is almost always fatal. 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 Animal County Animal Control at (209) 223-6378.

Posted by TSPN TV on Friday, 10-3-14