Rabid dog in eastern New Mexico puts Curry County on alert

Version 1 — Brief

A 10-month-old, unvaccinated dog in Curry County, New Mexico, tested positive for rabies after showing aggressive behavior and neurologic signs, according to the New Mexico Department of Health. The dog was euthanized, and the case is the state’s second canine rabies case in the past 10 months. One person who was bitten is receiving post-exposure vaccination, and five additional people with non-bite exposures are also being treated. State officials said New Mexico has recorded four confirmed animal rabies cases so far in 2026, including the Curry County dog. (nmhealth.org)

Why it matters: For veterinary professionals, the case is a reminder that rabies remains a practical small-animal and public health issue even in states where canine cases are uncommon. New Mexico law requires rabies vaccination for dogs and cats over 3 months of age, and the state health department emphasized that unvaccinated pets exposed to rabies may need to be euthanized or placed in strict isolation for four months. CDC guidance also says rabies vaccines for animals should be administered by a veterinarian or under veterinary supervision, underscoring the clinic’s role in prevention, documentation, exposure triage, and coordination with public health. (nmhealth.org)

What to watch: Local officials are also responding to a rabid skunk confirmed in Clovis on May 6, suggesting Curry County veterinarians may need to stay alert for additional wildlife-associated exposures this spring. (kcbd.com)