CARLSBAD — In light of the increased amount of rabies cases cropping up across Eddy County, the Carlsbad Police Department, along with local veterinarians, are putting on a rabies clinic for Carlsbad residents.

Artesia has had two skunks and one house cat test positive for rabies, an acute viral disease that attacks the central nervous system of its victim, within the last couple of weeks, making it possible for rabies to be present in other parts of Eddy County, said Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce representatives.

The severity of this condition is often understated, but rabies is a fatal disease if it is not treated before symptoms develop, in animals and in people, said the health department.

according to the Department of Health Services, rabies is transmitted in the saliva of rabies infected animals. when a person is bitten, or receives a lick to an open scratch, wound or mucus membrane, the virus can enter the body.

The local rabies clinic will be held from 1-3 p.m. Saturday at Desert Willow Veterinary Services, 512 E. Fiesta Drive.

All local vet clinics are participating as well as representatives from Carlsbad Animal Control and Noah’s Ark Animal Shelter.

The clinic is for cats and dogs only, and puppies and kittens must be at least 14 weeks old, or older, said representatives of the Eddy County Agriculture Extension Office. Clinic participants ask that your animals be on a leash or in a pet carrier.

The cost is $10 per animal, cash only, said Sgt. Jennifer Moyers with the CPD.

“If your pet is eligible for a three-year rabies vaccination, then you must bring your previous vaccination certificate as proof, otherwise your pet will receive a one-year vaccine and certificate,” said Woods Houghton with the extension office.

“The best protection you can provide your pets, horses and cattle is giving them a rabies vaccination,” said Dr. Samantha Uhrig of Desert Willow.

Uhrig said animals that may have been exposed should receive a booster shot immediately, even if it is before the three year period.

Failing to get your animals vaccinated can also have legal consequences. according to documents from the Carlsbad Municipal Court, residents can be charged and fined if they fail to get their animals vaccinated.

In the event that you, a friend or family member are bitten, the health department recommends that you wash all wounds and contact areas thoroughly with soap and water, contact your physician immediately for evaluation, call the local animal control department to report the incident, try to keep the animal confined, but don’t risk further injury if the animal is dangerous and keep children and pets away from all animals involved in the incident.

——

for more information about rabies, visit the Department of Health website at nmhealth.org/ERD/HealthData/rabies.shtml.

—-

what: Rabies Clinic for cats and dogs, 14 weeks or older

when: 1-3 p.m. Saturday

Where: Desert Willow Veterinary Services, 512 E. Fiesta Drive

Cost: $10 per animal, cash only

who: Hosted by local veterinarians and Carlsbad Police Department