skunk

Bats and skunks are common transmitters of the disease.

Solis said prevention is key, including vaccinating pets and taking precautions around wildlife, particularly known carriers such as bats, foxes and skunks.

A Great Pyrenees, who had just gotten skunked but nevertheless maintained a grin, protected a flock of turkeys.

“It’s just a postage-stamp suburban yard, but there’s a lot going on here,” Ransdell said of the yard’s abundant wildlife, which counts rabbits, skunks, raccoons and possums as visitors.

The virus is known to infect mammals — from skunks, bears, and cows to people and house pets.