The Arizona Game and Fish Department is reminding pet owners to stay current on vaccinations after a spike in wildlife rabies cases statewide.<\/p>\n
Why it matters:<\/strong><\/p>\n State of play:<\/strong><\/p>\n By the numbers:<\/strong><\/p>\n As of April 7, rabies had been confirmed in:<\/p>\n 25 skunks; 19 foxes; 3 coyotes; 2 bats; 1 bobcat; 1 horse<\/p>\n Between the lines:<\/strong><\/p>\n Skunks, foxes and bats are the most common rabies hosts in Arizona, Game and Fish Department wildlife veterinarian Anne Justice-Allen said in a statement.<\/p>\n Yes, but<\/strong>: When rabies activity is high in these species, it becomes more likely the disease will spread to other mammals, including dogs, cats, horses and cows, she said.<\/p>\n Zoom out<\/strong>: Dog bites and scratches cause 99% of human rabies cases, per the World Health Organization.<\/p>\n The fine print<\/strong>: State law requires all dogs three months and older to be vaccinated against rabies. Health officials encourage cat vaccinations as well.<\/p>\n Dog owners must provide vaccine proof to Maricopa County when licensing their pet, which is also required by state law.<\/p>\n This article<\/a> by Jessica Boehm was first published by Axios Phoenix on 16 April 2025. Lead Image:\u00a0Arizona has confirmed 19 rabies cases in foxes so far this year. Photo: Auscape\/Universal Images Group via Getty Images.<\/em><\/p>\n Wildlife continues to face threats, which include hunting, poaching, illegal trade in animal products, habitat loss as well as a rapidly changing climate.<\/p>\n Become a Wildlife Champion by supporting our conservation partners<\/a> with a monthly donation as little as $1.<\/p>\n\n
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What you can do<\/h2>\n