Rabies Alert

Royal Oak has had its first case of rabies in a domestic animal. A young cat was found alongside a road and it appeared to be sick. A very kind person picked up the cat and transported it to a veterinary clinic for treatment and in the process this person was bitten. The cat sadly died shortly afterwards and tested positive for rabies. The person was immediately contacted and is being treated accordingly.

There were several reported incidents of rabid skunks earlier this year and now a cat. Residents are urged to take precautions against rabies exposure from wild animals. If bitten by any wild animal or stray domestic animal, wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical attention immediately.

Rabies is an infectious disease that affects the nervous system of humans and other mammals. People and unvaccinated animals get rabies from the bite of an infected animal or if saliva from the animal gets directly into the eyes, nose, mouth or any break in the skin. Vaccine is given to at risk individuals to prevent the disease. Rabies is nearly always fatal if not treated after exposure.

The Royal Oak Animal Shelter wishes to remind everyone of the following:

1. Do not approach any animal if it appears sick.  Call the Police to get animal control involved, 248-246-3500.
2. Tell your children to stay away from any stray animals, whether they are skunks, dogs, or cats.  Any of these could be infected.
3. Vaccinate your dogs for rabies.  It is the law.
4. If you let your cats outside, STOP doing so. If you can't stop, please make sure your cats are vaccinated for rabies.
5. If they already have been vaccinated, talk to your veterinary professional about having a booster administered to protect your animal.  There is no cure for this deadly disease.

Check this rabies fact sheet for more information, and/or call 248-858-1406 or toll free 1-800-848-5533. Rabies on animal testing, call 248-858-1286 or toll free 1-888-350-0900, Ext 8-1286.