Second Rabies Positive Bat Captured in Arlington

By Office of Communication

Posted on Monday, October 03, 2016

Second Rabies Positive Bat Captured in Arlington

Hoary bat stock image

In less than a month, a second Hoary bat captured in Arlington has tested positive for rabies.

The infected bat, found September 27 on the grounds of Gunn Junior High School in the 3000 block of South Fielder Road, was declared rabid by the Texas Department of State Health Services Rabies Laboratory on September 30.

Arlington Animal Services staff notified Gunn Junior High School administrators. The Arlington Independent School District in turn notified parents about the health and safety concerns and encouraged any students who may have had contact with the bat to notify Arlington Animal Services.

Earlier last month, Arlington Animal Services officials observed and removed an ill-acting Hoary bat from the area of 1100 Forrest Drive. It also tested positive for rabies.

Prior to the rabies positive in early September of this year, the most recent occurrence was a skunk that tested positive two years ago in South Arlington off Calendar Road. In addition to bats and skunks, raccoons, foxes and coyotes are all high-risk carriers of rabies. Any wild animal that does not show fear of humans or appears sick or sluggish, should not be approached under any circumstances. Bats are not frequently active during daylight hours. Those that are seen actively moving around during the daylight hours may be infected with the rabies virus, and should be reported to Animal Services, immediately. Bats and other wildlife should never be approached under any circumstances, day or night. If you see one during the day, make sure people or pets do not get near the animal.

It is also important to notify Animal Services if any people, pets, or livestock come into contact with a bat, or any wildlife, even if the animal is no longer in the area.

Rabies is always fatal! People and animals may become infected with the rabies virus if an animal that has the disease bites or scratches them. Anyone who is exposed must take a series of post-exposure injections to prevent them from becoming infected with this fatal disease.

Pet owners are reminded that all dogs and cats are required by state law to be vaccinated against rabies by 4 months of age, and on a 1-year or 3-year basis thereafter, depending on the type of vaccine used. We also encourage all owners of livestock to consider vaccinating their animals as recommended by a licensed veterinarian.

Please help us maintain safe and livable neighborhoods by vaccinating your pets.

For more information please contact:

Arlington Animal Services at 817-459-6158

http://www.arlingtontx.gov/animals