A skunk verified positive for rabies was found in north central Abilene last week, making the possibility of crossing paths with a rabid animal a topic of discussion among the ACU community.

Aaron Vannoy, Animal Services program manager in Abilene, said two dogs that came in contact with the skunk had tested positive for rabies but have since been quarantined.

“It is important that pet owners keep their pets in close contact, especially for the next week or so,” Vannoy said.

Animal Services will respond to several types of emergency calls, including skunk sightings during daylight hours, according to their website. Vannoy said it is unusual for a skunk to be out during the day, although not unusual for rabid skunks.

According to a statement released by Kevin Roberts, associate vice president for operations, Physical Resources at ACU has increased surveillance to prevent rabid animals from coming onto campus. So far, however, they have not sighted any.

Police Chief Jimmy Ellison said there are occasional sightings of skunks and other stray animals around the area, but catching and detaining them is logistically impossible for the ACU Police Department, which has no animal-holding facilities. When a problem regarding stray or lost animals is reported to ACUPD, that information is passed on to Animal Services.