Kerr County confirms its 5th case of rabies this year

Kerr County Animal Services has confirmed its fifth case of rabies of 2024 after receiving a call last week regarding a deceased skunk that had been found in the backyard of a residence located on Earl Garrett Street in Kerrville.  The department was notified on Tuesday, March 26 that the animal was found dead and that there was exposure between the skunk and pets.  The positive result of rabies was sent to the county on Friday, March 29.

“This case and all four of the previous cases of rabies confirmed in our county have been in skunks and all were found inside Kerrville city limits,” said KCAS Director Reagan Givens.  “But, residents should also be aware that rabies can be transmitted by high-risk carriers such as fox, bats, raccoons, and even dogs or cats.”  Givens wants to remind residents to make sure their family pets are protected with rabies vaccinations.

Due to the pet exposure to the rabid animal in this incident, the pet owner has been instructed to follow a strict protocol lined out by Texas law.  Texas law dictates that if you don’t humanely euthanize a pet exposed to a known rabid animal, you must follow certain vaccination dates and quarantining guidelines.  “Making sure your pets are vaccinated in advance eases this process somewhat,” said Givens.

Anyone who notices an animal acting abnormally or sick should make note of its appearance, its exact location and which direction it may be heading, then report that information to Kerr County Animal Services at (830) 257-3100.  If it is after hours, citizens should contact the Kerr County Sheriff’s Office with the information at (830) 896-1216.