A fox with rabies attacked a dog Loxley, Alabama

BALDWIN COUNTY, ALA., (WEAR-TV) — A woman was in her yard on Tuesday when a fox appeared and attacked her dog, says the report.

According to the report, the woman called the Loxley Police Department for assistance and then beat the fox off her dog with a long pole.

When the police arrived, they shot the fox and sent it the Mobile State Public Health Laboratory for testing, says the report.

According to the report, the lab confirmed on Wednesday the fox was positive for rabies.

Environmental Director Greg Dunn, Southwestern District, said “Luckily, the fox did not bite the woman and her dog was current on vaccinations and received a booster.” Dunn stated, “This incident illustrates the importance of being alert and keeping your pets properly immunized. Rabid foxes have bitten six people and two dogs in Baldwin County since May 21.”

State Public Health Veterinarian, Dr. Dee W. Jones, said, “Rabies prevention is multifaceted; it involves people taking precautions with wildlife, making sure their pets are current on rabies vaccinations, and always reporting an animal bite or other exposure to their medical provider or the health department.”

Area residents are advised to take the following precautions to avoid possible exposure to rabies:

Do not allow pets to run loose; confine them within a fenced-in area or with a leash.

Do not leave uneaten pet food or scraps near your residence.

Do not illegally feed or keep wildlife as pets.

Do not go near wildlife or domestic animals that are acting in a strange or unusual manner.

Caution children not to go near any stray or wild animal, regardless of its behavior.

Advise children to tell an adult if they are bitten or scratched by any animal.

A person who is bitten or scratched by an animal should wash wounds immediately with mild soap and water, apply first aid, and seek medical attention or contact the county health department immediately.

Alabama state law requires that dogs, cats and ferrets 12 weeks of age and older be current with rabies vaccination. Rabies vaccines are also available for horses and other livestock if recommended by a veterinarian.

Vaccinating animals reduces the risk of rabies infection should an exposure occur; thus vaccinations help protect animals, as well as their owners and caretakers.

For more information about rabies and prevention click here.

Contact the Baldwin County Health Department at (251) 947-3618.

You may also call ADPH at 1-800-338-8374 or (334) 206-5100