Protect Your Family from Rabies
It’s spring and that means wildlife will be coming out of hibernation. Rabies reservoir species in Colorado include bats, skunks, raccoons, foxes, and coyotes. In 2018 and as of May 8, 2018, there have been 152 animals that tested positive for rabies. This number is higher than what has ever been reported at this time of the year in Colorado. Tri-County Health Department (TCHD) has had only two of these rabid animals, one skunk in Arapahoe County and one alpaca in Douglas County. This is the first known rabid alpaca in Colorado. Please report any pet or human exposure to wildlife immediately to TCHD. TCHD investigates high-risk exposures to wildlife and highly suspect domestic animals. Domestic pets (dogs and cats, etc.) that bite or scratch people are referred to animal control for assessment and 10-day quarantine of the pet. Remember to stay away from wild animals, do not leave pet food outside and keep control of your pets outdoors. Vaccinating pets and livestock is the best protection from rabies exposures.