St. Cloud residents warned of rabid skunks
Residents in St. Cloud are warned that three rabid skunks have been found in the south side of the city in the past three weeks.
The skunks came into contact with local dogs, all of which were vaccinated against rabies. The rabid skunks didn't spray. The city has alerted health care providers and veterinarians to be on the lookout for bite wounds that might transmit the disease.
The skunks were behaving lethargically and not avoiding people and pets the way they typically do, said Lisa Schreifels, health director for the city of St. Cloud.
"One wandered into a dog kennel that had a dog in it. That's not normal behavior," she said.
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Pet owners are reminded to vaccinate their pets against rabies which is fatal to animals and humans. There has been no reported human exposure to the rabid skunks.
"It's vitally important that people have their pets, both cats and dogs, vaccinated for rabies," Schreifels said. "If your pet is not vaccinated, not only does your animal here in St. Cloud go into quarantine, but that animal -- your pet -- can also be ordered to be destroyed."
Schriefels also advises people not to feed their pets outdoors because the food attracts wild animals.
• More information can be found on the St. Cloud website