Bexar County has confirmed its first rabid pet dog in over ten years. The positive diagnosis was made by the Metro Health Laboratory on August 18. A male Husky mix owned by a resident of the Far Westside killed a baby skunk in late July, an incident that was not reported at the time.
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Following the encounter, the dog exhibited behavioral and neurological symptoms which led to the rabies test. Authorities have offered rabies prophylaxis to individuals and pets that may have been exposed.
This case coincides with a surge in rabies among wildlife in the region, with 22 cases reported in June and July, a notable increase compared to two or three cases during the same months in 2024 and 2025.
Rabies is a viral disease affecting both humans and animals, primarily transmitted through wildlife such as skunks, bats, foxes, and raccoons. It is crucial to seek immediate medical attention after potential exposure, as the disease is almost always fatal once symptoms manifest.
Health officials encourage residents to keep pets up to date on vaccinations and prevent them from roaming freely or interacting with wildlife. Any exposure to wild animals should be reported, and individuals who are bitten or scratched should wash the area and consult a healthcare provider.
To promote pet health, Animal Care Services is hosting a vaccination clinic on Saturday, August 22, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Monterrey Park, offering free rabies shots and other vaccinations to the first 100 pets. Residents can report wildlife encounters involving pets by calling San Antonio Animal Care Services at 311 or Bexar County animal control at 210-335-9000.