The McDonald County Health Department in southwest Missouri says a local dog has tested positive for rabies.

Health officials say the dog likely contracted the disease from a skunk in the northwest part of McDonald County. The results of the rabies test has been confirmed by the Missouri State Lab. Wild animals account for nearly 90% of all rabies cases. Authorities say homeowners should make sure that all pets are up-to-date on rabies vaccinations and to avoid contact with wild animals, especially bats, raccoons, foxes, and skunks, since they are primary carriers of rabies. The incubation period for domestic animals is three to six weeks.

Once symptoms appear in an animal, rabies is fatal.