Woman being treated for rabid dog bite

Animal control then took the puppy to a local veterinarian, where it was euthanized. Remains were sent to the State Public Health Laboratory for rabies testing. And the tests came back positive.

Huff said the woman and her three children are being treated for exposure to rabies. He said the family dog will not have to be euthanized since it was vaccinated for rabies.

“I hope this is encouragement for everyone to get their animals vaccinated for rabies,” said Huff.

Huff said the puppy smelled like a skunk and he suspected that the dog may have contracted rabies from a skunk. Hull said he’s dealt with three or four rabid skunks this year.

“It’s not been in one place; it’s been scattered around the county,” said Huff.

Huff said he’s been patrolling the Comer area since the incident, looking for any signs of rabid animals.

The Madison County Health Department urged county residents to take the following precautions:

•Be sure that pets (including dogs, cats and ferrets) are current on rabies vaccinations.

•Avoid any wild animal exhibiting unusual behavior such as aggression, lack of fear of people, or appearances during odd times of the day.

•Report any incidence of bites from any animal to your local Health Department.