Skunk and Fox Test Positive for Rabies in the City of Salinas

 

Salinas, CA – March 8, 2024 – A skunk found on February 20, 2024, near Rider Avenue and Del Monte Avenue and a fox found on February 21, 2024, near Constitution Blvd and East Laurel Drive, both in the City of Salinas, have tested positive for the rabies virus. Animal Services has investigated both incidents and determined that there was exposure to owned pet(s). Those pet(s) that were exposed have been placed under quarantine. County of Monterey Public Health is further investigating to determinme any potential human exposure. 

The Public Health Bureau and Animal Services want to remind residents and visitors that there is a continuous presence of rabies in local wildlife, both in and out of city limits. In Monterey County, skunks and bats are the most common species to test positive for the virus. Domestic animals, including companion dogs and cats are at risk for rabies throughout Monterey County. Pet owners are encouraged to visit their veterinarian with their pet on a regular basis and keep rabies vaccinations up to date for all dogs and cats. 

 For more information on rabies vaccination requirements in the City of Salinas, please refer to  Salinas Municipal Code section 7-5. For questions related to City of Salinas Pet Licensing or Animal Control, please contact Hitchcock Road Animal Services at 831-769-8850.

 Domestic animals are at increased risk of rabies if they are not protected by a rabies vaccination and if they are allowed to contact wildlife. In addition to ensuring that pets are currently vaccinated, the following precautions are also advised:  

    Owners should avoid leaving their pets outside unattended, particularly at dawn and dusk when wildlife can be most active.

    Owners of domestic livestock species such as horses, sheep, goats, pigs and cattle should discuss rabies vaccinations with their veterinarian as these species are also susceptible to rabies infection from rabid wild animals.

    Residents should avoid leaving pet food and water outside because it encourages wildlife activity around the home.

    People should avoid contact with wildlife, particularly skunks and bats at all times. Do not touch or approach animals acting strangely. If any wild animals are found dead, acting abnormally or ill, or if you think you or your pets have been exposed to rabies, please contact your local animal control agency.

 More information about rabies is available by calling the County of Monterey Health Department’s Communicable Disease Unit at 831-755-452, by visiting Hitchcock Road Animal Services’ website (www.hitchcockroadanimals.org) or visiting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website (https://www.cdc.gov/rabies/).