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By Beth Alston

 

AMERICUS — The Americus Police Department Animal Control Unit has received four separate dispatched calls this year alone in reference to wildlife exhibiting warning signs of rabies.

According to a press release from the APD Friday, the latest was reported on Thursday in the northwestern area of the city limits of Americus. The APD said the animal control officer has captured four animals in that area that exhibited the warning signs of rabies. They were three foxes, and one raccoon. Fortunately, no pet or human has been bitten by any of these animals. All of the animals captured have been reported to Environmental Health, as well as the Georgia Department of Agriculture.

The press release also states that in 2017, Georgia had four species of animals test positive for rabies: raccoon, bat, fox, and skunk. An animal that has warning signs of rabies might appear disorientated, have a lack of energy, have heavy salivation, and a lack of fear of humans.

Authorities urge the public to take caution and make sure their dogs and cats have been inoculated for rabies and to maintain alertness when out and about.

“If you or your pet is bitten by one of these animals you should seek medical attention as soon as possible,” the APD cautions. “Remember if you see a fox, raccoon, or skunk displaying any of these warning signs