Rabies alert

The Royal Oaks area has been the site of several skunks which tested positive for rabies. Rabies is a serious physical condition, caused by exposure to the saliva of an infected animal through the eyes, nose, mouth, or a break in the skin. It is almost always fatal if not treated.

During the warmer months, the incidences of rabid animals rise, so you are urged to take these precautions:

* Avoid bats, raccoons, skunks and foxes; be especially wary if you see any of these animals out during daylight hours, as they are primarily nocturnal animals.

* If you are bitten by a wild animal or by a domestic animal that you are not sure has been vaccinated against rabies, immediately clean the area with soap and water, and seek medical help immediately.

Contact the Royal Oaks Animal Shelter at http://www.ci.royal-oak.mi.us/portal/webfm_send/1097 for more information.