Rabies In The Panhandle Area

Rabies is on the rise in the Panhandle and experts are warning animal owners to watch out for their pets and make sure they are vaccinated.

Health officials have confirmed 11 cases of rabies across the Texas Panhandle so far this year, the most recent was last week in Memphis.

Last year, the Texas Department of State Health Services confirmed 16 total cases of rabies in the Panhandle but so far this year there have been 10 rabid skunks reported.

Animal Management and Welfare says there are a few ways you can prevent the spread of rabies

1. Keep a close eye to make sure your pets do not come in contact with any wild animals.
2. Call your local animal control agency to remove any strays from your neighborhood.
3. Make sure your animals are spayed and neutered to reduce the number of unwanted pets that might not be properly cared for or regularly vaccinated.