Posted Date: 3/23/2012 8:15 AM

COLLEGE STATION POLICE DEPARTMENT
03/23/2012 - News: Skunk Activity

The College Station Police Department is once again asking for citizens to be especially careful due to the fact that during this time of year skunks become more active and the possibility of contact with these animals could increase.

If you or your animal come into contact with a skunk it is very important for you to call the police department. Rabies is a deadly disease caused by a virus. In infected mammals, it is spread through the saliva and is contractible by any warm-blooded animal. Signs of a possible rabid animal are:

• Change in behavior - Nocturnal animals, like skunks, raccoons, coyotes, foxes and bats should not be out and about during the daylight hours.
• Unexplainable paralysis or inability to move
• Not eating or eating strange foods
• Pawing at the mouth
• Appearance of choking
• Difficu lty in swallowing
• Chewing at the site of a wound or bite site

If you witness any wild animal in the city, displaying the symptoms listed above, please call the College Station Police department at 979-764-3600. It is always important to keep your pet's vaccination current against rabies. It is also important to not let your pets to roam free where they might be at risk of coming in contact with a rabid animal.

The safety of our community does not have borders. It is the goal of every law enforcement agency to protect the citizens that we serve. Be the eyes and ears of your police department. When you see suspicious activity contact the College Station Police Department at 979-764-3600 or the Texas A&M University Police Department at 979-845-2345; contact the Bryan Police Department or the Brazos County Sheriff's Office at 979-361-3888. Together we can make a difference in our community.

Prepared By: Officer Rhonda Seaton

Question s regarding this news release may be directed to:
Officer Rhonda Seaton, Public Information Officer
College Station Police Department
2611 Texas Avenue
College Station, Texas 77840
Office Phone: (979) 764-3591
Cell Phone (979) 204-5200
Department Phone: (979) 764-3600
Email: rseaton@cstx.gov