A skunk found on Lefthand Canyon Drive located north of Boulder was confirmed positive for rabies on Thursday, June 6. A resident reported the skunk after contacting her veterinarian because her dog had contact with the skunk.
This is the first case of rabies documented in a terrestrial (ground dwelling) species since 1963. This is important because the risk of rabies transmission to pets or humans is much higher from terrestrial species than from bats. It’s a warning to all Boulder County residents that skunk rabies is present and is a danger in our community, especially to pets and livestock.
“Rabies is a deadly disease that affects mammals, including people and domesticated pets. As a community, we can help prevent this deadly disease with regular vaccinations for our dogs, cats, horses and livestock,” said Dr. Jennifer Bolser, Chief Clinic Veterinarian for the Humane Society of Boulder Valley. “Rabies vaccination requires periodic boosters, so please contact your veterinarian and ensure that your pet’s vaccination has not lapsed. If your pet’s vaccination status is unknown, please schedule a consult with a veterinarian urgently to protect you and your pet from this serious disease.”
If your pet is overdue for their rabies vaccine, we strongly recommend getting them up to date to mitigate the potential risk of Rabies should your pet come in contact with an infected animal. Check with your veterinarian to review your pet’s rabies vaccine status.
For general information about rabies, visit BoulderCountyVector.org, or call the Colorado Health Information Line at 1-877-462-2911.
BCHA Nicker 