This is the first confirmed case in a Louisiana dog since 2014 and only the fifth in the state in the past 20 years.
While rabies in dogs is rare in Louisiana, the virus remains present in the state and is most commonly found in wildlife, particularly bats and skunks. Dogs and other domestic animals can become infected when they encounter a rabid wild animal.
Louisiana law requires dogs, cats. and ferrets over three months old to be vaccinated against rabies by a licensed veterinarian. Pet owners should make sure their animals are current on their rabies vaccinations and avoid allowing pets to interact with wildlife.
What to do after a possible exposure
If a pet is bitten or otherwise exposed to an animal that may have rabies, contact a veterinarian and local animal control or public health authorities promptly. Do not attempt to handle a potentially rabid animal.
Anyone who is bitten or scratched by an animal, or whose broken skin, eyes, nose, or mouth comes into contact with saliva or nervous tissue from a potentially rabid animal, should immediately wash the exposed area thoroughly with soap and water and contact a health care provider or public health professional. Rabies is preventable when appropriate care is started promptly after an exposure.
Residents should not approach or handle wild animals that appear sick, injured, unusually tame, or aggressive. Contact local animal control or wildlife authorities instead.