Woman, puppy bitten by fox in Franklin County

Woman, puppy bitten by fox
Officials suspect animal is rabidphoto © 2009 Ingrid Taylar | more info (via: Wylio)

Rabies on the Rise

Rabies cases increase in New River Valley

Officials advise pet owners to vaccinate cats, dogs and ferrets against rabies.

Associated Press  May 24, 2011

photo © 2010 U.S. Department of Agriculture | more info (via: Wylio)

CHRISTIANSBURG -- Rabies cases are increasing in the New River Valley.

The New River Health District said Tuesday that 15 cases have been confirmed this year. That matches the 15 cases confirmed in all of 2010.

Two cows and a bobcat are among this year's cases. The other cases were raccoons, skunks and cats.

Health district director Dr. Molly O'Dell says there were a cluster of cases in Giles County.

The health district advises pet owners to vaccinate cats, dogs and ferrets against rabies.

Here is another article in the Roanoke Times about a Rabid bobcat in Floyd VA May 26, 2011. 

BRFAL Chapter of Virginia Master Naturalist warns to take caution around animals you do not know, never pick up an injured or sick animal, or go near any animal that is acting strangely, call animal control  immediately at 540-483-7440. 


Animal Control for Franklin County Virginia can also be reached via the Franklin County Sheriff Dept dispatch 540-483-3000.