WARNER ROBINS, Ga. — Warner Robins Animal Control says they've seen at least two recent cases of rabies. That's why they're urging pet owners to get their animals vaccinated.
Most good pet owners know a part of having a healthy pet starts with their veterinarian.
"Just like they're children, make sure they're all up-to-date on their vaccines, make sure they have a constant relationship with their veterinarian, and make sure they're taken care of," David Collins said.
Collins and his two dogs, Sigma and Trowa, visit the dog park often.
With Warner Robins Animal Control sounding the alarm on new rabies cases, he says he's noticed feral animals around.
"There are actually, unfortunately, stray animals all over the city. In fact, I saw one earlier today at the dog park, a dog with no collar," Collins said.
Greg Langston with animal control says the cause of the rabies spread is not being up-to-date with vaccinations.
"On the north side of town, we had a raccoon test positive for rabies and we're trying to get it out there and let people know it’s really important to get your animals vaccinated against rabies," Animal Control supervisor Greg Langston said.
Warner Robins Animal Control says it’s important to know and follow animal ordinances. The top three they recommend for keeping your pet safe include restraining the animal, keeping their vaccinations up to date, and not feeding stray or feral cats.
Rabies is a viral disease usually transmitted through the bite of a rabid animal.
The virus infects the central nervous system, causing disease in the brain and death.
Langston says people should think twice before feeding stray animals, as the good deed could come with a fine or a court case.
"It’s against the law to feed feral cats. You need to quit feeding the feral cats out there -- if you're going to feed them, you need to go ahead and catch them and take them to your residence or whatever and get them rabies shots and everything. That’s the most important thing, rabies shots,” Langston said.
Greg Langston says if your pet needs shots, animal control doesn’t offer them,
but some local groups do at no cost. He says the shots are usually about $20.