Squirrel rabies myth?

I heard that the only way a squirrel could get rabies, is if it got attacked by a dog with rabies. And since the chances of a squirrel surviving such an attack are small, then there is almost no chance of getting rabies from a squirrel. I forgot where I read this, but is it true? Do you know of any sources to back up this claim or anyother claim related to this topic?

It's not true. An animal does need to get bite by a rabid animal, but not necessarily a dog. A bat, or another rabid squirrel could pass the disease on. This CDC link has a lot of information.

Gee, in my area I have heard of squirrels that had rabies, so I couldn't say. Why would they have to be only attacked by a dog? Couldn't another animal have gotten rabies?

Any mammal can carry and spread rabies; a squirrel need not get it from a dog. If you or someone you know is worried about a bite sustained from a squirrel, you should call the local Department of Animal Control. They will know how much rabies there is in your local community and can advise you on how worried you should be and whether or not you should get the rabies vaccine.

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