As temperatures rise, so do rabies cases. Right now, rabies cases are on the rise in Cochise County.

It's more important than ever to get your pets' vaccinations updated. So far this year, 13 animals in Cochise County, including six skunks, six foxes, and one coyote, have tested positive for rabies.

Cochise County has located a number of animals with rabies this year. Created with Canva

Wildlife officials have discovered more wildlife carrying the virus this year, and it puts unvaccinated pets at a serious risk of contracting the deadly infection.

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What is Rabies, and What Are the Symptoms It Causes?

Rabies is a deadly virus that attacks the nervous system. Symptoms include aggression, disorientation, paralysis, excessive drooling, and difficulty swallowing.

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Rabies is spread through scratches and bites. Created with Canva

An animal infected with the rabies virus might act strangely. It's not uncommon to see a wild animal acting unusually tame. Pets that are typically calm and personable can become fearful and aggressive.

If a pet contracts rabies, there is no cure, and once symptoms show up, it's almost always fatal. The illness progresses rapidly and leads to paralysis and death. It's so dangerous because an infected animal can spread the disease before symptoms show up, spreading it to humans and other animals through bites or scratches.

Rabies vaccines can only be administered by a licensed vet. Created with Canva

How to Protect Your Pet Against Rabies

Rabies is 100% preventable with proper vaccination. While consumers can purchase other vaccinations in ranch and feed stores, only a licensed veterinarian can administer a rabies vaccination. Check with your local pet store or animal shelter; many local pet organizations hold low-cost shot clinics.

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If you see an animal behaving oddly in Cochise County, contact the Cochise County Sheriff's Office at (520) 803-3550.

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Protect your pets; get their rabies vaccinations updated. Created with Canva

In Maricopa County, check out the advice and reporting on their Rabies and Bite Reporting | Maricopa County, AZ website. In Pima County, call the Health Department at (520) 724-7797.

Sources: Arizona Fish and Game | Arizona Department of Health and Human Services | CDC

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Gallery Credit: Val Davidson