A skunk found dead in Egg Harbor Township has tested positive for rabies, according to the Atlantic County Division of Public Health.
It is the second case of rabies in the county this year.
The skunk was found in an outside pen housing three sheep at a property in the 1000 block of Ocean Heights Avenue, county spokeswoman Linda Gilmore said.
The area is near the Fresh Start Church.
It was collected Feb. 9, with the lab confirming rabies Thursday.
An investigation by the Atlantic County Division of Public Health found no indication the sheep had been attacked. But because farm animals were involved, the New Jersey Department of Agriculture was notified and a site visit was scheduled to determine what, if any, confinement of the sheep may be necessary.
The county's first rabies case of the year was confirmed Jan. 7, in a fox found in the 6300 block of Spruce Street in Hamilton Township.
Officials remind residents of the importance of vaccinating their pets against rabies, a viral disease that can be fatal if left untreated. Rabies vaccinations also help protect pet owners and their family members from contracting the disease from an infected pet.
The Atlantic County Animal Shelter is holding its next free rabies vaccination clinic from 9 a.m. to noon Feb. 27 by appointment, which can be made online at www.aclink.org/animalshelter.
Dogs and cats who receive an initial rabies vaccination are not considered immunized until 28 days after the vaccine has been administered. It's recommended that any animal newly vaccinated or those who can't get vaccinated because they are younger than 3 months should not be left outdoors unattended.
Situations have arisen where pet owners have left unvaccinated or newly vaccinated pets outdoors where they have sustained exposures to known or suspect rabid animals, resulting in euthanasia or four to six months' strict confinement.
Public health officials also advise residents to teach children to stay away from wild, stray or aggressive animals. Never feed or touch wild animals or try to keep them as pets.
If you are bitten by an animal, wash the wound immediately with soap and water and seek medical attention. All bites should be reported to the Atlantic County Division of Public Health at 609-645-5971.
For more information about rabies control and precautions to protect your family and your pets, please visit the county web site at www.aclink.org/publichealth or call (609) 645-5971.
