The Larimer County Department of Health and Environment has confirmed the first positive rabies case in Larimer County of 2015, a rabid bat.
Rabies can infect any warm-blooded mammal, but is most commonly found in Larimer County in bats and skunks. If you see a skunk or bat that’s behaving strangely, keep your distance and call Larimer Humane Society’s animal control at 970-226-3647.
The Department of Health and Environment reminds pet owners to keep their animals up to date on rabies vaccinations to prevent lengthy quarantines or even euthanasia if they encounter a rabid animal. Livestock owners should check with their veterinarians about rabies vaccinations for horses, cattle and other livestock.
Ways to protect you and your family:
• Do not feed or touch wildlife.
• Teach children to observe wildlife from a distance and to notify an adult if there is a wild animal in the area or if they are bitten or scratched.
• Eliminate food sources for wild animals by not feeding pets outdoors, closing pet doors especially at night, and tightly closing garbage cans and feed bins.
• Ensure that your pets, horses and livestock are up to date on their rabies vaccinations.
For the latest information on rabies in Larimer County, visit http://www.larimer.org/health/ehs/rabies.htm.