Animal Bites and Rabies

What to do if Your Pet is Bitten or Scratched by another Animal

Try to find out what type of animal bit or scratched your pet. DO NOT TOUCH THE ATTACKING ANIMAL.

Use gloves or a hose to wash your pet’s wounds. DO NOT TOUCH YOUR PET WITH BARE HANDS. There may be saliva from the rabid animal still on your pet.

Immediately call your pet’s veterinarian, even if the wound is superficial.

Call the animal control officer at the police department and the Department of Health (222-2577).

Dogs, cats and ferrets that are currently vaccinated should be revaccinated immediately, kept under the owner's control, and observed for a period as specified by state law or local ordinances (normally 45 days or more).

Animals with expired vaccinations will need to be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

Remember, animals cannot receive postexposure treatment for rabies. That is why it is vitally important that your animals are vaccinated and boosters kept up to date.

Unvaccinated dogs, cats and ferrets exposed to a rabid animal may need to be euthanatized immediately. Alternatively, the animal should be checked and immediately placed in strict isolation for 6 months and vaccinated 1 month before being released.