For Immediate Release
June 5, 2012
Steve Merritt
Public Information Officer
Montana Department of Livestock
406-444-9431
Carter County Rabies Quarantine Extended
A rabies quarantine on Carter County has been extended through July 28 after a calf tested positive for the disease.
Under Montana law, counties are quarantined when rabies is diagnosed in a terrestrial animal such as a dog, cat, skunk or fox. All unvaccinated dogs, cats and ferrets in quarantined counties must be vaccinated a minimum of two weeks prior to any travel outside the quarantined county.
Carter County was originally quarantined in April following diagnosis of the disease in a puppy.
Rabies is highly preventable in domestic companion animals and livestock via an inexpensive and effective vaccine. Pet owners are encouraged to keep their animals up to date on vaccinations, and should consult with their veterinarian to determine local vaccination requirements.
Anyone who is bitten or scratched by an animal should thoroughly wash the wound with soap and water and seek medical attention for the wound. Animal bites should be reported to the county health department (or County Sheriff's office after hours) as soon as possible.
For additional information on rabies, please consult your local public health department or see:
#MDOL#
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