Bexar County confirmed its first dog rabies case in over a decade on August 18, 2026, after a Husky mix displayed concerning behavioral and neurological symptoms
following a July wildlife encounter, officials said. The incident underscores an outbreak of rabies in wild animals, with 22 cases reported in June and July 2026—far exceeding the 2-3 cases in the same period in 2024 and 2025.
The case marks the first confirmed rabies infection in a pet dog in Bexar County in more than a decade, according to San Antonio Animal Care Services (SAACS) and Metro Health. The dog, which lived on the West Side inside Loop 1604, killed a baby skunk in late July but the owner did not report the incident, officials said. Several weeks later, the animal began showing symptoms that led to a positive rabies test. Exposed individuals and pets received post-exposure prophylaxis, though no human cases have been reported.
The Outbreak in Context
Health officials described the current situation as an “outbreak” of rabies among wild animals, with 22 confirmed cases in June and July 2026 alone. This surge far exceeds the 2-3 cases reported during the same months in 2024 and 2025, according to data from the Texas Department of State Health Services. The spike has prompted urgent reminders for residents to keep pets vaccinated and avoid contact with wildlife.
The Dog’s Story
The Husky mix’s owner initially did not report the July encounter with the baby skunk, a detail revealed in a news release from Animal Care Services (ACS). The dog later exhibited concerning behavioral and neurological symptoms,
prompting a rabies test that confirmed the infection. Officials stressed that the failure to report the incident may have delayed intervention, increasing the risk of exposure to others.
Public Health Response and Precautions
In response to the case, health officials are urging residents to take preventive measures. Key recommendations include keeping pets up to date on rabies vaccinations, avoiding free-roaming dogs, and never feeding or handling wildlife. The Texas Department of State Health Services also maintains a rabies map to help residents assess risk in their area.
San Antonio Animal Care Services is hosting a free rabies vaccination clinic on August 22, 2026, at Monterrey Park, offering shots to the first 100 pets. The event aligns with broader efforts to combat the outbreak, as officials warn that unvaccinated pets are particularly vulnerable to infection after wildlife interactions.
Residents are also advised to report any animal encounters to 311 or Bexar County animal control at 210-335-9000. If a potentially rabid animal is inside a home, the public is urged to confine it safely or wait for Animal Control to respond. Anyone exposed to an animal should wash the area with soap and water and seek medical attention immediately.
Vaccination is the most effective protection against rabies,
said SAACS. By both City and State law, dogs and cats must remain current on their legally required rabies vaccinations.
The agency also reiterated that allowing pets to roam freely is illegal and increases the likelihood of dangerous wildlife interactions.
While no human cases have been reported, the rapid progression of the dog’s illness underscores the severity of the disease. Health officials stress that prompt action—whether through vaccination, reporting, or medical care—can prevent tragedy.
