Dog tests positive for rabies in Covington County
ANDALUSIA, Ala. (WAKA) – A dog in Andalusia has tested positive for rabies.
The Alabama Department of Public Health said the confirmed case involved human exposure.
A veterinarian who suspected the dog being rabid sent it to Auburn for testing.
The dog was then taken to the ADPH Bureau of Clinical Laboratories in Prattville where rabies were confirmed.
ADPH says it is very common for domestic animals and pets to have contact with a wild rabid animal.
Alabama state law requires that dogs, cats and ferrets 12 weeks of age and older be current with rabies vaccination. Rabies vaccines are also available for horses and other livestock if recommended by a veterinarian.
Vaccinating animals reduces the risk of rabies infection should exposure occur; thus, vaccinations protect animals, as well as their owners and caretakers.
In addition to vaccination, area residents are advised to take the following precautions to avoid possible exposure to rabies:
- Do not allow pets to run loose; confine them within a fenced-in area or with a leash.
- Do not leave uneaten pet food or scraps near your residence.
- Do not illegally feed or keep wildlife as pets.
- Do not go near wildlife or domestic animals that are acting in a strange or unusual manner.
- Caution children not to go near any stray or wild animal, regardless of its behavior.
For more information about rabies and prevention, please contact ADPH at (334) 206-5969 or click here.
