Skunk Tested Positive for Rabies in Clark

The Clark Township Health Department is warning residents that a skunk has tested positive for rabies. The infected skunk had direct contact with two dogs on Prospect Street. Residents in the area and throughout Clark should be aware of the alert and take precautions to protect their pets and themselves.

Rabies is a serious viral infection that is preventable with prompt medical attention. The virus spreads through animal bites or when the saliva of an infected animal enters the body through cuts or scratches. Anyone bitten or scratched by a wild or stray animal—including stray dogs and cats—should immediately wash the area with soap and water and seek medical attention.

Pet owners with dogs or cats that have been bitten or scratched by a wild or stray animal should take their pets to a veterinarian promptly and report the incident immediately to the Clark Police Department and Health Department. This is critical even if the bite or scratch seems minor.

How to Protect Your Pets

The best defense against rabies is vaccination. Pet owners must ensure their dogs and cats are currently vaccinated against rabies. Vaccinations should be kept up-to-date and renewed according to veterinary recommendations. Other pets such as ferrets should also be kept current with rabies vaccinations. All dogs and cats must be licensed each year in accordance with Clark Township ordinances. Pet licensing can be completed online at www.ourclark.com.

Keep all pets under direct supervision so they do not come into contact with wild animals. This is especially important during dawn and dusk when skunks and other wildlife are most active.

If You See a Strange-Acting Animal

Residents who see an animal behaving strangely should not approach it. Stay away and immediately contact the Clark Township Police Department or Health Department. Do not attempt to trap, capture, or approach the animal.

For Clark residents with pets in the Prospect Street area or throughout the township, the Health Department's alert is a reminder to review vaccination status and ensure pets are protected. Taking these preventive steps now can protect your family and pets from a potentially fatal illness.

FAQ

Q: What is the rabies alert in Clark?

A: The Clark Township Health Department is warning residents that a skunk has tested positive for rabies. The skunk had direct contact with two dogs on Prospect Street.

Q: How is rabies transmitted?

A: Rabies spreads through animal bites or when the saliva of an infected animal enters the body through cuts or scratches.

Q: What should I do if my pet is bitten or scratched by a wild animal?

A: Take your pet to a veterinarian promptly and report the incident immediately to the Clark Police Department and Health Department.

Q: How can I protect my pet from rabies?

A: Ensure your dog, cat, or ferret is currently vaccinated against rabies. Vaccinations must be kept up-to-date according to your veterinarian's recommendations. Keep your pet under direct supervision to prevent contact with wild animals.

Q: Is annual pet licensing required in Clark?

A: Yes. All dogs and cats must be licensed each year in accordance with Clark Township ordinances. Pet licensing can be completed online at www.ourclark.com.

Q: What should I do if I see a strange-acting animal?

A: Do not approach the animal. Stay away and immediately contact the Clark Township Police Department or Health Department.

Q: Is rabies preventable?

A: Yes. Rabies is preventable with prompt medical attention. If you are bitten or scratched by a wild or stray animal, wash the area with soap and water immediately and seek medical attention.

Q: How can I report a rabid animal or animal exposure?

A: Contact the Clark Township Police Department or Health Department immediately.