A skunk killed on Ashcraft Drive has tested positive as the 15th case of rabies in Rowan County this year.
Sam Wright, of 138 Ashcraft Drive, called Rowan County Animal Control on Dec. 1 to report that he had killed the skunk after finding his dog, Duke, attacking it through a fence. Officer Jim Rich picked up the skunk, which was sent to the State Veterinarian’s Office for testing.
Because Wright had contact with Duke after it attacked the skunk, he was advised by Animal Control to consult with his physician regarding post-exposure rabies shots. Duke was current on his rabies vaccination, but Wright was required to take him for a booster shot within 72 hours of exposure.
When pets not current on rabies vaccinations are exposed to rabid animals, they are required by state law to be euthanized or quarantined at a veterinary clinic for six months. Depending on the size of the dog, this can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000.
Of the 15 rabies cases reported this year, six involved skunks; five, raccoons; two, foxes; and two, bats.