Rabid bat found in Garland County

A rabid bat collected from the interior of a residence at the Indiandale Apartments on Malvern Avenue tested positive for rabies yesterday by the state health lab.

The bat, still alive, was found clinging to the dining room rug.  The resident used an oven mitt to put it in a container and submitted it to Hot Springs Animal Services for testing.  No exposure to humans or animals occurred, since the occupants sleep with their pets in bedrooms with closed doors.  The dog was already vaccinated for rabies, but the two cats, who were not, will be vaccinated today.

Animal Services Director Dan Bugg emphasized that all cats and dogs, whether kept strictly  inside or not, need to be vaccinated against rabies for their protection.  A rabies vaccination clinic in the south Hot Springs area will be announced as soon as it is confirmed. Rabies vaccinations are also available from local veterinarians.  To report daytime activity of skunks or bats, both of which are nocturnal and which are the most prevalent carriers of rabies, call 262-2091.