The Deadly Disease Every Arizona Pet Owner Should Understand

Every year, thousands of animals across the nation contract rabies. While rabies isn't the most common disease in Southern Arizona, it is fast-acting and deadly, so it's important to understand how it spreads and how to protect yourself and your furry friends.

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dog sitting on grass

Rabies in Southern Arizona

Cochise County and surrounding areas see multiple rabies cases each year, most often during the warmer months when wildlife is most active. According to the Arizona Department of Health, Cochise County had more than 20 lab-confirmed rabies cases in 2025. Skunks were the most common carriers, with confirmed cases also found in foxes, bats, coyotes, and coatis.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explains that rabies spreads when an infected animal bites or scratches another mammal, whether that's you or your dog. Rabies can also be spread through carcasses; if an animal eats something that was carrying the disease, they will contract it.

Any potential rabies exposure requires immediate medical attention. Rabies in humans can be treated when medical intervention is received promptly; however, for pets, the story is much different.

READ: Southern Arizona's Top Three Food-stealing Wild Animals

black and white skunk

Rabies Prevention and Awareness.

If you ever encounter a wild animal acting unusually aggressive, disoriented, out at unusual times of day, or unafraid of people, avoid contact and report it to local animal control or public health officials. Reporting suspected rabies cases helps health authorities monitor outbreaks.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 100,000 Americans get vaccinations after potential rabies exposure every year. When vaccines and HRIG are administered quickly, these treatments are highly effective at preventing the disease in humans. Unfortunately, the outlook is very different for pets. Once a dog or cat develops rabies, there is no treatment.

RELATED: Arizona's State Mammal, The Ringtail, Explained

black and gray stethoscope

Vaccinations!

Rabies is always fatal in pets once symptoms appear, and cats and dogs can be exposed to rabies in places you would least expect. Vaccination trains their immune systems to fight the virus before it causes illness, protecting your pet and helping prevent exposure to you and your family.

If you are interested in getting your pet vaccinated without breaking the bank, stop by the Nancy J Brua Animal Care Center and ask them what they have available!

a dog and a cat laying in the grass

Rabies will likely always be around, but it is a threat we can manage. By staying informed, being aware of your surroundings, keeping your pets vaccinated, and using resources like the Nancy J Brua Animal Care Center, you can help make sure your community stays safe and rabies-free!

CONTINUE READING: The Legacy Of Nancy J. Brua And Local Animal Welfare