The number of rabies cases in wild or domesticated animals declined for a fourth straight year in South Dakota.  Twenty-seven animals tested positive for the disease out of 633 that were tested in 2007. The state had 37 cases in 2006 and 68 in 2005.  Officials say rabies was found last year in 16 skunks, four bats, two cattle, two dogs, two cats and a goat.

South Dakota hasn't reported a human case of rabies since 1970.  Officials recommend vaccinating pet dogs and cats - even horses - for rabies because they might come in contact with an infected skunk.  Brown County had the most rabies cases last year with four.  Clark and Meade counties each had three.