Two more rabies cases confirmed in Kerr County

Kerr County officials confirmed on Friday that there were two additional cases of rabies discovered in the county recently, after lab results showed two raccoons tested positive for the disease. One of the animals was discovered in a homeowner’s yard on Galbraith Avenue, while the other raccoon was in a yard on West Davis Street.

Kerr County Animal Services Director Reagan Givens is asking pet owners to be extra vigilant in making sure that their pets are current on all of their annual vaccinations, as rabies is a potentially fatal viral and neurological disease that can be spread to humans from cows, goats, horses, ferrets, dogs and cats.

“Both of these raccoons were found in residential areas in the northwestern portion of Kerrville – in the city. You never know when a wild animal may enter your yard or come close to your home. It is vital that we all take steps to protect our pets with vaccinations,” Givens said.

Givens also wants to remind citizens to never attempt to feed or touch wildlife, including stray dogs or cats. Anyone who sees an animal acting strangely is asked to call Kerr County Animal Services at (830) 257-3100, or the Kerr County Sheriff’s Office at (830) 896-1216.

Texas law states that if a pet is bitten or has had contact with a rabid animal, the pet should be humanely euthanized. If a pet owner is unwilling to do that, the pet should be revaccinated immediately and restrained for a period of 45 days. If the pet has not been vaccinated, it should immediately receive a shot and then placed into strict isolation for 90 days.

Kerr County is reporting seven rabies cases so far in 2021. There were four cases confirmed in 2020.