Rabid Skunk Chases Children In Aurora
AURORA, Colo. (CBS4) - Health officials say they have reports of at least two rabid skunks in Aurora and are warning people to beware of the sick animals.
One skunk was found in Aurora's Del Mar Park neighborhood infected with rabies, according to the Tri-County Health Department. In another case children were chased into their condominium near Southlands Mall.
"Rabies is almost inevitably fatal, so if your dog or cat gets it they will almost inevitably die," John Douglas with the Tri-County Health Department said.
It's a scary fact that has Darrin Sacks worried about his dog, Griff.
"I don't think she knows anyone but friends, so I think for her she'd want to go up and engage with it," Sacks said.
Animals infected with rabies are known to change their behavior. That happened in Aurora one month ago.
"A likely rabid skunk actually chased a dog and chased someone into their house," Douglas said.
"No one needs a crazy skunk coming after you in the first place," Sacks said.
Further confirmation of rabies in skunks came just days ago.
"A skunk that's no longer afraid of dogs could be interacting with dogs. The dog could bite the skunk. That happened in this case, there was a wound on the skunk, We think the dog bit it," Douglas said.
Vaccinations are required for pets in Aurora and other cities, but not everyone complies.
"We want to be sure everybody goes, 'Oh yeah, are my vaccines up to date?' If not, 'Let me call my vet and get it taken care of,'" Douglas said.
Health departments advise to never touch a sick wild animal. If a pet is scratched by a wild animal, call a veterinarian.
