GO NEW MEXICO
Departments of Wildlife, Health urge caution after reports of aggressive wildlife behavior
The New Mexico Department of Wildlife is urging outdoor recreationists to remain cautious after two separate incidents involving unusually aggressive wildlife in Catron County.
In different incidents, a bobcat and a fox approached and engaged with hikers and campers in the Gila Wilderness. Nobody was bitten, the department said in a news release, but the reports raise suspicion of rabies infection. A bobcat tested positive for rabies in Sierra County in March.
Both bobcats and foxes in New Mexico have been diagnosed with rabies. Rabid animals may appear unusually quiet and tame, or aggressive and unafraid of humans, the department said. Call your local animal control officer or local New Mexico Department of Wildlife conservation officer if you spot a potentially sick wild animal.
The Department of Wildlife and the New Mexico Department of Health recommend the following guidelines:
Always keep pets on a leash. Pets should be up to date on rabies vaccinations and wearing current license tags on their collar. If your cat or dog has been bitten or scratched, especially by a wild animal, call your pet's veterinarian even if the wound is superficial.
Horses and other livestock should also be considered for rabies vaccination to protect them from rabid animal attacks.
Stay away from wild or unfamiliar animals. Do not attempt to feed, approach or touch wild animals, alive or dead. Teach this important message to your children and always keep a close eye on your children.
If you or someone you know is bitten by an animal, or comes into contact with an animal鈥檚 saliva, wash the exposed site immediately with soap and water. Be sure to report the bite to local animal control and seek medical care as soon as possible.
If you or your pets are bitten or otherwise exposed to the saliva of wild animals, seek medical care immediately and contact the NMDOH Helpline at 833-SWNURSE (796-8773).
