Issues with Skunks and other nuisance animals?  

Augusta County Animal Control is receiving numerous calls concerning wildlife and specifically skunks.  Issues with nuisance wildlife spikes in the spring with warmer weather promoting activity as well as mating season.

According to the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, nuisance animals are very adaptable to urban areas.  Although they are nocturnal, meaning they mostly are out at night, they are sometimes seen during the day.  The majority of time they are looking for food.  Urban areas provide a host of opportunities for food.

Just because nocturnal animals are seen during the day, it does not mean the animal has rabies.  Just because an animal appears sick, does not mean it has rabies.  Distemper is very common.  It can be hard to distinguish between the two.  Signs of rabies includes muscle tremors, paralysis and excessive salivation, as well as acting aggressive.  Signs of distemper are runny nose, vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, excessive salivation, coughing and/or labored breathing.  If an animal appears sick, the public should not approach the animal.  If the public comes in contract with an animal, even dead animals, and feel they have been exposed to rabies, they should contact the Virginia Department of Health to report.

Staunton-Augusta Health Department: 1-540-332-7830

Augusta County Animal Control normally does not handle wildlife calls.  They address domestic animals and animal welfare in accordance with local and state regulations.  The Department of Game and Inland Fisheries addresses these issues.  They do have a website and a toll-free wildlife helpline.

Helpline: 1-855-571-9003

www.dgif.virginia.gov/wildlife/nuisance/

If a resident has a nuisance animal they want trapped, they are encouraged to visit the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries website.  Included on their website is list of local licensed trappers.

www.dgif.virginia.gov/wildlife/nuisance/trappers/

If there are questions for Augusta County Animal Control, residents are welcome to call 540-245-5635.