Three Rabies Cases in Douglas County

County animal service officials are encouraging pet owners to have their dogs and cats vaccinated after three wild animals have recently tested positive for rabies.

• On November 6th, a fox tested positive after it bit a human on Copper Ridge Drive off Post Road.
• On November 13th, a raccoon tested positive after it came in contact with a dog on Terry Lane off Fairburn Road.
• On November 20th, a raccoon tested positive after contact with 2 dogs and 5 cats from West Lotus Point off Mount Vernon Road.

Rabies occurs naturally in some wild animals, particularly in raccoons, skunks, bats, and foxes, according to an animal services release.

Rabies is a preventable viral disease that is most frequently transmitted through the bite or scratch from a rabid animal.

The rabies virus infects the central nervous system, ultimately causing disease in the brain and death. Rabies is nearly 100 percent fatal if post-bite vaccinations are not given before symptom onset.

Almost all cases of human infection is through domestic dogs or cats that came into contact with an infected wild animal.

Vaccination against rabies is required by State of Georgia law for domesticated cats and dogs. Any licensed veterinarian can easily administer a simple shot.

Due to the number of confirmed cases of rabies, Douglas County Animal Services is working with Animal Lovers Veterinary Hospital at 1810 Lee Road in Lithia Springs for a low-cost rabies vaccination clinic for Saturday, Dec. 5, from 8 a.m. until noon.

Rabies vaccinations will cost $12, and all Douglas County residents are encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity to protect their pets and themselves.