A 10-month-old dog in Curry County tested positive for rabies, according to an April 23 announcement from the New Mexico Department of Health. This is the second confirmed case of a dog with rabies in the state within the past ten months.
The department said the dog was euthanized after it showed aggressive behavior and neurological symptoms. The animal had not received a rabies vaccination. One person who was bitten by the dog is receiving post-exposure rabies vaccine, while five other people who were exposed but not bitten are also undergoing preventive treatment.
“Rabies vaccines are an invisible but strong barrier against this deadly disease,” said Dr. Erin Phipps, state public health veterinarian for the New Mexico Department of Health. “State law requires all dogs and cats be vaccinated against rabies. Unvaccinated pets exposed to rabies must be euthanized or strictly isolated for four months to prevent human exposure.”
Rabies is most commonly found in wildlife such as skunks, bats, and foxes in New Mexico. In 2025, there were 13 confirmed cases of animals with rabies statewide; there were 12 cases reported in 2024. Bats are identified as the species most often found with rabies locally, but all mammals can contract it—including household pets that may encounter wildlife even inside fenced yards.
The department recommends that pet owners vaccinate their animals starting at three months old and keep vaccination tags visible on collars. If a pet is bitten or scratched by another animal—especially wildlife—owners should contact their veterinarian immediately regardless of how minor the wound appears. The public is also advised to avoid contact with wild or unfamiliar animals and teach children not to approach them.
Anyone who experiences an animal bite or exposure to saliva should wash the area thoroughly with soap and water before seeking medical attention promptly. Human vaccinations are recommended if someone has direct contact with a bat or finds one where they slept or where children were left unattended.
Suspected exposures should be reported to local animal control authorities and questions can be directed to NMDOH Helpline at 1-833-SWNURSE (833-796-8773) or by texting questions to 66364.
