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Rabid fox killed in Jackson On Thursday Oct. 25 a fox attacked two dogs in Jackson. Animal Control Officer Lee Hutto submitted the animal to the Alabama Department of Public Health Mobile Branch Laboratory for testing. Hutto stated he was called to the residence where the attack occurred and was able to trap the fox and put it to sleep. On Friday, Oct. 26 the laboratory provided confirmation that the fox tested positive for rabies. Rabies is a serious disease that is fatal if treatment is not received. Vaccination of all pets is an important step in creating a barrier between rabies in the wild animal population and humans. According to Dr. Dee Jones, State Pubic Health Veterinarian, "Vaccination of the two dogs involved in this attack prevented these animals from having to be euthanized." Unfortunately, this was not the case in an attack on a young girl by a rabid fox several years ago near Whatley. The family pet that killed the fox had to be euthanized due to the fact that it had not been vaccinated within the previous 12 months. Parents are advised to make children aware of the danger posed by unfamiliar dogs, cats and wild animals. If you can touch it, don't, is a good rule to remember when encountering an unfamiliar animal. All county residents should have their pets vaccinated as soon as possible since rabies has presented itself in all areas of the county during recent years.
If you have any questions or concerns about rabies, please call the Clarke County Health Department at 251-275-4177 or your local veterinarian.
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