Animal Bites

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Animal Bites

Rabies is spread by a bite or scratch from an infected mammal. Animal bites may need immediate medical attention depending on severity; it is important to clean the wound immediately regardless if medical attention is sought. Your physician may elect to preemptively treat for rabies exposure, but 72 hours is often allowed to receive results of rabies testing prior to treatment. Rabies post-exposure treatment can be discussed when the bite is reported. Reports of animal bites to your local rabies authority should be done within 24 hours. The animal should be confined for a veterinary exam or testing if possible.     



What should I do if...


An animal has bitten or scratched me and caused me to bleed?
An animal has bitten or scratched me and caused me to bleed?
  • Take note of the appearance/description of the animal and owner contact information
  • Wash the area with soap and water
  • Report the bite to the local animal control
  • Your local animal control will take a report on the bite
  • Get a tetanus shot if you have not had one in the last 10 years
  • Go to a health care provider if the bite is severe
My pet has been bitten or scratched by a high risk rabies carrier?
My pet has been bitten or scratched by a high risk rabies carrier?
  • High risk rabies carriers are bats, skunks, raccoons, foxes and coyotes
  • Try to confine the animal, without touching it, so it can be tested for rabies
  • Report the contact to your veterinarian and your local animal control agency
  • It's important to keep current vaccinations for your cats, dogs and other animals!
I have found a bat?
I have found a bat?