MITCHELL, S.D. (MITCHELLNOW) With warmer weather bringing more active pets and wildlife, South Dakota officials are reminding the public to stay alert about rabies. While cases have dropped significantly over the past 50 years, the virus still poses a risk. Officials say rabies clinics are a key tool in keeping pets safe. The South Dakota Department of Health reports 175 confirmed rabies cases in the past decade out of more than 5,600 animals tested.