GRAPEVINE, TX - On the evening of Wednesday, March 1, 2023, Grapevine Animal Services was called to the area of East Dallas Road and Dawn Lane in Grapevine. A caller indicated a sighting of a skunk which appeared disoriented and was approaching people in an unusual manner. Upon testing, the skunk was confirmed to be positive for the rabies virus.

At this time, there are no reported human or animal exposures to the rabid animal. Should you believe yourself, a loved one or pet to be exposed at this location, you are urged to contact Grapevine Animal Services immediately. In addition to contacting Grapevine Animal Services, if you believe your pet may have been exposed, please seek immediate care from a veterinarian.

Wild animals, especially high risk vectors such as skunks, are a source of the rabies virus. You can protect yourself and family by ensuring a veterinarian vaccinates your dog, cat or ferret for rabies. Keep pet animal vaccinations current. Avoid allowing pet animals to interact with wildlife. Do not feed or interact with wildlife. Teach children how to be safe around animals, domestic and wild. If you see an ill or injured wild animal, immediately call Animal Services at 817.410.3370 ext. 2.

Signs of a rabid animal in pets or wildlife can include a change in behavior, such as a wild animal appearing "friendly" or a pet animal becoming aggressive all of a sudden. Additionally, difficulty walking, eating, or drinking may be apparent.

A free rabies vaccine clinic will be available on Saturday, March 25 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Grapevine Animal Services, located at 500 Shady Brook Drive in Grapevine. This is a first-come, first-served event.