The Rise In Rabies

The Rise In Rabies

The Rise In Rabies. I'm Greg Martin with Lacy Gray for Colorado Ag Today.

MARTIN: Rabies is on the upswing in Colorado and that means not only you but your animals may be in danger of an infection. Some simple steps could help prevent a potentially deadly infection if left untreated.

GRAY: The biggest thing for ag producers to do is to have your animals vaccinated and make sure all vaccinations are up to date. Even the family pets need protection as well in areas that may be prone to wild animal visits.

MARTIN: Officials also recommend you never approach or touch a wild animal that seems sick or acts strangely and by all means, pay attention to animals that are behaving in an erratic manner. It's a good sign that they may be infected. If you do notice something out of the ordinary contact your local animal control office.

GRAY: Rabies is a viral disease that affects the brain of mammals and is almost always fatal in unvaccinated animals. It's passed by the saliva of the infected animal so avoid being bitten. This means checking your animals for bites as well. You should discuss vaccination options with your veterinarian.

MARTIN: Wild animals like skunks, bats, raccoons, squirrels and more are all potential carriers of rabies and if a wild animal appears to be tame and doesn't run when approached there a good chance it's due to rabies. Again, talk to your vet and contact authorities with any questions you may have to keep your animals safe.

And that's Colorado Ag Today. I'm Greg Martin, thanks for listening on the Ag Information Network of the West.

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