On Tuesday, Sept. 1, a Pima Animal Care Center enforcement officer responded to reports of a skunk running in broad daylight in the Campbell Ave and Stronghold Canyon Lane area of Sahuarita. Due to the unusual nature of the animal’s behavior, it was tested and found to have rabies.
Additional sightings of skunks have been reported near the park and school bus stop within the Madera Highlands subdivision in Sahuarita between August 31 and September 2.
If you, anyone you were with, or your pet touched or had contact with a skunk in this area please notify the Pima County Health Department immediately (520) 724-7797.
“It’s important for parents to remind their kids to stay away from wild animals,” said Dr. Francisco Garcia, Director of the Pima County Health Department. “This is especially important when kids are by themselves, such as playing at the neighborhood park or while waiting for the bus.”
Skunks can carry rabies. Rabies is a disease caused by a virus. Humans and pets can contract rabies from direct physical contact such as a bite or scratch from an infected animal. It may take weeks to years for people to show symptoms after being infected.
However, once someone starts developing symptoms, that person usually does not survive. All pets should be vaccinated for rabies, even those who stay inside the home.
Please remember that if you see a skunk acting oddly (out in the daytime, walking unbalanced or acting aggressively) immediately notify the Pima Animal Care Center by calling (520) 724-5900.