SAN MARCOS ANIMAL SERVICES
On Saturday, Aug. 2, around 4:30 p.m., San Marcos Animal Services received a report of a live bat on the ground in front of Le Creuset at the Tanger Outlet Mall. e animal was safely collected and sent to the rabies laboratory in Austin, where it tested positive for rabies virus. A witness said they saw a group of teenagers touching the bat, but the group left before Animal Protection O.cers arrived. San Marcos Animal Services is seeking any information to help identify the teenagers or any other individuals who may have come into contact with the bat. Please call 512805-2655 as soon as possible so sta. can assist those possibly a.ected with obtaining medical treatment if necessary. Rabies is a deadly virus that can infect mammals, including wildlife, pets and humans. Rabies is spread through the saliva of infected animals and, if contracted, is deadly. It is imperative that anyone who comes into physical contact with a rabid animal seek post-exposure treatment promptly to avoid contracting the deadly virus. Post-exposure treatment for rabies exposure that is provided soon after a bite or exposure is e.ective at preventing the virus from spreading. Post-exposure treatment consists of a series of injections to help your body build immunity to the rabies virus. If you see a wild animal, especially one acting strangely or found in an unusual location like the middle of a sidewalk, do not touch it. Instead, call Animal Services and trained o.cers will respond to address the animal. Animal Services reminds pet owners to vaccinate pets to keep both animals and people safe, which is required under Texas state law and San Marcos City Ordinance. Visit sanmarcostx.gov/pethelp to .nd low-cost rabies vaccination options for your pet.
