Zoonosis Control - Public Health Region 8

Our Program

Amanda Kieffer, DVM, MPH 
Regional Veterinarian 
7430 Louis Pasteur 
San Antonio, TX 78229 
Region8.Zoonosis@dshs.texas.gov 

Phone: 210-949-2048 
Fax: 210-692-1457 

In Texas Public Health Region 8, we provide zoonosis control public health services in twenty-eight counties of south-central Texas. The purpose of the Zoonosis Control Program is to protect the health and well-being of Region 8 through the prevention and control of zoonotic diseases.  Zoonotic diseases are sicknesses that can spread to humans from animals and/or insects. 

How We Help You

The Zoonosis Control Program works to:  

  • Identify, prevent, and control zoonotic diseases reported in the Region 

  • Educate residents and medical, veterinary, and public health professionals about zoonotic diseases 

  • Work with local, federal, and other state agencies on zoonotic disease control 

  • Conduct surveillance activities for animal and insect diseases of public health concern 

  • Support preparedness, response, and recovery efforts for public health emergencies  

  • Perform risk assessments and make recommendations on prevention of rabies and other diseases.  

  • Ensure compliance with state health and safety codes for rabies and animal control 

  • We strive to keep you informed and safe 

Our Services

For Region 8, our activities include:  

  • Investigate all reported cases of human, animal, and insect diseases in Region 8 

  • Provide educational programs on disease prevention, medical testing, and surveillance 

  • Assist healthcare providers and community stakeholders with rabies risk assessment and vaccination 

  • Train animal control officers and other interested persons on rabies prevention, animal control laws, and animal welfare 

  • Inspect animal shelters that quarantine rabies suspects to ensure they meet the standards for animal control and rabies laws 

  • Partner with community task force programs concerned with zoonotic and insect-transmitted diseases 

Zoonosis Control Program Newsletters 

Check out our latest newsletters for all things Zoonosis Control:  

March 2024

2023

October 2023
July 2023
April 2023
January 2023

2022

October 2022
March 2022 

2021

October 2021 
June 2021  

2020

January 2020  

2019

September 2019 

Connect With Us

Have a question? Reach out to our department for assistance.