Tarrant County Government: Two Foxes Positive For Rabies In Benbrook

Press release from the Tarrant County Government:

May 21, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Brian Murnahan
Public Information Officer Tarrant County Public
Health 817-321-5306 ncce_blmurnahan@tarrantcounty.com

Two Foxes Positive For Rabies in Benbrook

May 21, 2021 - (TARRANT COUNTY) According to the Texas
Department of State Health Services, two foxes collected by Benbrook
Animal Control in Benbrook tested positive for rabies. The foxes were
collected the last week of April and the second week of May. There was
one human exposure, and that person is receiving preventative treatment.

There is a possibility that additional foxes and other wild animals
may be affected. Tarrant County Public Health recommends people in Benbrook:

• avoid contact with wild animals and with dogs or cats you do
  not know. Do not approach strange dogs or cats.
• ensure your
  pets are vaccinated to protect them and you.
• restrain your
  pets, do not allow them to roam.
• do not touch sick or
  injured animals.

Additionally, report wild animals that seem friendly, tame, acting
unusual, or sick to Benbrook animal control: (817) 249-1610 (the
police non-emergency line).

If bitten by an animal, report the bite to Benbrook animal control
and seek care from a physician. A rabies exposure is defined as (1) an
animal bite that breaks the skin or (2) exposure of broken skin or
mucous membranes to saliva or cerebrospinal fluid.

The State of Texas requires that dogs and cats be vaccinated against
rabies by four months of age. A licensed veterinarian must administer
the vaccination.  

Although not required by law, it is recommended that livestock
(especially those that have frequent contact with humans), domestic
ferrets, and wolf-dog hybrids be vaccinated against rabies. Again,
check with your veterinarian about other available vaccines for these
animals.   

For more information about Rabies Vaccination Requirement click here 

For more information about Rabies click here  

This press release was produced by the Tarrant County Government. The views expressed here are the author’s own.