Rabid skunk found in Pueblo could have come in contact with neighborhood pets

PUEBLO, Colo. (KRDO) -- The Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment is warning residents in one neighborhood to check their pet's rabies vaccinations after a rabid skunk was found.

An alert sent by Public Health on Thursday says the skunk was found in the area east of Interstate 25 and west of Fountain River near 200 Ash Street.

It's not clear when the rabid skunk was in the neighborhood, but public health believes it came in contact with pets in the area.

“It is important to vaccinate your pets to protect them from rabies, as it has been found in wild skunks, bats, and other animals throughout Pueblo County,” stated Vicki Carlton, program manager at the Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment.

Rabies is transmitted by being bitten by an infected animal or if the infected animal's saliva gets into a cut or break in the skin.

Public health gave the following tips to avoid rabies exposure:

• Never touch a skunk or any other wild animal. Healthy skunks and raccoons typically come out in the evening.  If the animals are out in the day, they may be sick. Children who find wild animals should leave them where they are, do not touch the wild animal, and tell an adult. 
• If you are bitten by a skunk or other wild animal, wash the bite thoroughly with soap and water then contact both your physician and the Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment. 
• Make sure your pets are up to date on their rabies vaccinations.