Rabies Alert Issued In Norman

Lisa Monohan, News 9

NORMAN, Oklahoma -- Police in Norman issue a rabies warning to residents. The City of Norman is reporting more phone calls coming in complaining about raccoons, possums, and skunks in their neighborhoods.

Police say the city will offer assistance but they also need the community's help. Captain Tom Easley said pets left in backyards are the city's main concern.

In the last month, the city trapped 15 skunks and are willing to help capture more. Skunks are the primary carriers of rabies in Oklahoma.

"We are not trying to scare anyone or frighten the public. We are just asking you to be informed." said Lois Sadberry, a pet owner in Norman. "I just don't know what I would do if something happened or if a wild animal tried to get them."

 Sadberry says she will keep a close watch on her pets now.

"It is certainly a concern because we live out in the country and my little dog Pan gets carried off every night by some animal or something," she said.

Norman Police say they will help capture any skunks seen in the area. Norman Animal Welfare says this activity is common for this time of year so they recommend pet owners get their dogs and cats vaccinated. Animal Welfare also suggest placing your food bowls inside or at an elevated level because skunks can not climb.