If A Skunk Got in My Kennel Does My Dog Have Rabies Now?

Skunks are known to carry rabies.
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Skunks are only one of many different wild animals that can carry rabies, but not all skunks have the disease. Unless the skunk that got into your dog’s kennel has rabies, it can’t transmit the disease to your dog. Even if the skunk is rabid, your dog can’t get rabies just from being near it; the skunk must bite or scratch your dog or otherwise infect him with its saliva before it can transmit the disease.

What to Do

If you suspect that the skunk has rabies, contact animal control for help with trapping and removing it. When they catch it they will check it for the disease. Even if your dog was not bitten or otherwise injured, it’s best to call your veterinarian and ask if your dog needs a booster shot as a precaution. If your dog is vaccinated against rabies and you’ve kept his shots current, it’s unlikely he’ll contract the virus.