City of Tyler Issues Rabies Advisory

TYLER — A rabid skunk has turned up in Tyler. The Texas Department of State Health Services advised Tyler Animal Services yesterday the test was positive for rabies. The animal was found near the intersection of Kingsmill Circle and Sawgrass, in south Tyler. The persons who were exposed to the skunk have been identified.

Tyler Animal Services reminds you it is critical for people not to handle bats, skunks, raccoons or other wild animals. It is also important for children to tell their parents of any contact with any wild or sick animals. If you or anyone you know has been bitten by an animal, the bite incident must be reported to the Local Rabies Control Authority for proper investigation.

City of Tyler Ordinance and Smith County Ordinance require annual rabies vaccinations for all dogs and cats. You need to make sure that your dogs or cats are currently vaccinated for rabies. It is a Class C misdemeanor for failure to vaccinate your dog or cat by four (4) months of age.