SAN MARCOS ANIMAL SERVICES
San Marcos Animal Services received a report of a sick raccoon on Coers Circle, near Old Ranch Road 12 and Franklin Drive on April 14. Animal Protection Officers responded to the call, collected the animal, and submitted it to the Texas Department of State Health Services laboratory in Austin for testing. The raccoon subsequently tested positive for the rabies virus. The resident who reported the animal and had contact with it has been notified of the test results and is seeking medical care.
Rabies is a deadly virus that can infect mammals, including wildlife, pets and humans. Rabies is spread through an animal’s saliva and is fatal if not treated before symptoms occur. It is important that anyone that physically contacts or is bitten by a rabid animal seek post-exposure treatment promptly to prevent contracting the virus. Post-exposure treatment for rabies that is provided soon after a bite or exposure is effective at preventing the virus from spreading. Post exposure treatment consists of a se- ries of injections to build immunity to the rabies virus.
Members of the community that encounter a wild animal should not touch it. Wild animals that appear to be sick, or any physical contact with a wild animal should be immediately reported to Animal Protection Officers by contacting Animal Services at 512-805-2655. Pet owners in the community are urged to vaccinate their pets against rabies, which is key to preventing the spread of the virus and is required by state law and City ordinance. For resources and information about obtaining low-cost rabies vaccinations for pets, visit: sanmarcostx.gov/1559/ Pet-Help.
