Authorities warn public of rabid fox in Abbeville

ABBEVILLE, AL (WSFA) - Authorities in Abbeville are warning the public after a fox was found with rabies.

This is one of several rabies cases in the Wiregrass this year.

Abbeville Police Chief Noel Vanlandingham says the fox was reported to the department Monday afternoon near the intersection of Ozark Road and Highway 27.

Authorities say foxes are generally scared of people and they'll run way, but this fox was acting erratic, which is usual for an animal with rabies. A rabid animal will also foam at the mouth and become aggressive.

Police put the fox down, and it was sent to the state health department for testing. Results came back positive Wednesday.

"We're starting to see more foxes in residential areas in Abbeville, mainly in houses that are abandoned, and they're letting the weeds grow up grass grow up around the house and becoming delapidated finding refuge under these houses," Vanlandingham said.

If you ever come across a fox or any other animal you think may have rabies try to avoid it and contact your local authorities immediately.

Authorities also ask pet owners to watch their pets if they're outside and make sure they're up to date with their rabies shots.

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