Kerr County confirms first rabies case of 2021

The first positive rabies case of 2021 has been confirmed in Kerr County. On Monday, March 22, Kerr County Animal Services was advised that a skunk was in a yard of a residence on Forest Circle, located off Bandera Highway and was in contact with the property owner’s dog.

According to KCAS Director Reagan Givens, “The skunk was dispatched and picked up by one of our four KCAS officers on Tuesday, March 23, and the specimen was sent out for testing on March 24. Confirmation that the skunk was positive for rabies was received today, March 26.

Givens wants to remind Kerr County residents who own pets to make sure that all pets are current with their vaccinations against rabies. There is a Kerr County Commissioners’ Court order on rabies and animal control that states pet owners must have a dog or cat vaccinated against the disease by the time the pet reaches 4 months old. The vaccines then must be given at least once every three years.

Pet owners must retain the original vaccinations certificate furnished by the veterinarian, which should include the owner’s name, address and telephone number, as well as identifying information about the animal.

Anyone who sees a wild animal or stray dogs or cats is asked to refrain from feeding them or making close contact with them. Anyone who has been bitten by an animal or exposed to an animal suspected of having rabies should seek medical care immediately.

For additional information contact Kerr County Animal Services at (830) 257-3100. Suspected cases of rabies may also be reported to the Zoonosis Control office in San Antonio by calling 210-949-2048.