October 26, 2020
Media Contacts: Tiffany Carter, Public Information Officer, 804-862-8951(o), 804-704-7554(c), tiffany.carter@vdh.virginia.gov or Tara Rose, Alternate Public Information Officer, 804-862-7612, tara.rose@vdh.virginia.gov
RABID JUVENILE SKUNK FOUND IN PRINCE GEORGE COUNTY
(Petersburg, Va.)- A rabid, juvenile skunk was found at 2176 Courtland Road, South Prince George, VA 23805. The skunk was found on Tuesday, October 20, 2020. Please remember to vaccinate your pets and avoid approaching wild animals.
The Health Department strongly advises that people take the following steps to prevent families and pets from being exposed to rabies:
- Vaccinate all cats, dogs and ferrets against rabies and keep them up-to-date
- Avoid contact with wild animals or stray cats and dogs
- Do not feed wild animals or stray cats and dogs
- Report stray animals to your local animal control agency
- Eliminate outdoor food sources around the home
- Keep pets confined to your property or walk them on a leash
Rabies is a preventable viral disease found in mammals such as bats, raccoons and foxes. It is spread through contact with the saliva of a rabid (infected) animal, most often through a bite or scratch. Early symptoms include fever, headache and general weakness or discomfort. Rabies affects the brain and ultimately leads to death. It can be prevented with vaccination, but once symptoms begin, there is no cure. If your pet needs to be vaccinated for rabies, please contact your local veterinarian.
To report a stray and/or suspicious animal, please contact Prince George County Animal Control at 804-991-3200. You may call Crater Health District at 804-863-1652 for more information about rabies or how to protect your family. Additionally, you can visit Crater Health District online at CraterHD.net.
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