TOWN OF BETHEL, NY — In the second confirmed case this year, a cat in the Town of Bethel has tested positive for the rabies virus according to Sullivan County Public Health Services (PHS).

The rabies virus occurs commonly throughout New York State, with the vast majority of rabies cases reported each year occurring in wild animals, including raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks and woodchucks. Domestic animals account for less than 10% of the reported rabies cases, which most often include cats, cattle and dogs. Pets may become infected from wild animals if the pets are allowed to roam freely through wooded areas.

To guard against rabies infection, pets should be up to date on rabies vaccines, which are effective for a year for dogs, cats and ferrets over three months of age. Revaccinations are effective for up to three years. Pets too young to be vaccinated should be kept indoors.

PHS advises residents not to try to separate fighting animals and to wear gloves if handling a pet after a fight. Also, residents should avoid attracting wild animals to their houses by keeping their properties free of bird seed, garbage, or other foods that might attract them. Openings to basements, attics, garages should be board or otherwise closed.

Residents who suffer any sort of animal bite should contact PHS at 845/292-5910. If an animal has possibly exposed a person to rabies, the animal should not be allowed to escape if that can be done safely. Depending on the species, it can be observed or tested for rabies in order to avoid the need for rabies treatment for people, or to avoid euthanizing and testing exposed unvaccinated pets.

The next regularly scheduled free rabies vaccination clinic for dogs, cats and ferrets will be held on Tuesday, August 23 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Hanofee Park in Liberty.