Fourth Rabid Skunk Found in Davidson County

CONTACTS: Brian Todd, Metro Public Health Department, 340-2153, Judy Ladebauche, Metro Animal Control, 862-7928 or Brent Hager, 340-5653

Skunks' Tests Positive for Rabies Virus in South East Davidson County Neighborhood Fourth Confirmed Rabid Skunk Since January

NASHVILLE, Tenn., May 1, 2006 -- Metro Animal Control is encouraging pet owners to make sure their companion animals' rabies' vaccinations are up to date today after a skunk tested positive in an Antioch neighborhood. This is the fourth confirmed rabid skunk in Davidson County since January. The other three confirmed cases were found in the Oak Hill area.

If your pet comes in contact with a skunk or other wildlife contact your veterinarian or Metro Animal Control at 862-7928. Metro Public Health Department strongly advises people to follow the guidelines listed below to prevent families and pets from being exposed to rabies.

* Have your veterinarian vaccinate all cats, dogs, and ferrets against rabies and keep the vaccinations up to date.
* Avoid contact with wild animals or stray cats and dogs.
* Do not feed wild animals or stray cats and dogs.
* Report stray animals to your local animal control agency.
* Eliminate outdoor food sources around the home.
* Keep pets confined to your property or walk them on a leash.

Metro Animal Control is a program of the Metro Public Health Department.