FEATURE: Citizens Reminded to be Cautious of Wildlife; Vaccinate Pets Against Rabies

7/17/2009

As the number of reported rabies cases has increased over the last several weeks, Wake County animal control officers want to remind citizens to be aware of the potential for rabid wildlife in their neighborhoods and make sure pets are properly vaccinated.

"People and their pets are at a greater risk of contracting rabies between late spring and early fall because they spend more time outdoors, and wildlife is more active during these times," said the County’s Environmental Health and Safety Director Andre Pierce. "It is also important for citizens to know that an animal can be rabid and not exhibit excessive drool and foam at the mouth. These symptoms mostly occur during the latter stages of infection. A better way to identify animals that pose a risk is to recognize unusual or abnormal behavior."

Rabid wild animals may stagger, appear restless, be aggressive, change the tone of their barks or growls, or appear to be choking. Sometimes the animals lose their fear of humans and act friendly. Also be aware of nocturnal animals that are active during the day.

If a pet has been properly vaccinated against rabies, but comes into contact with a potentially rabid animal, it should receive a rabies vaccine booster shot from a veterinarian within 72 hours.

If a person is bitten or scratched by an unknown animal, they should thoroughly clean the wound with soap and warm water, and immediately contact their physician or Wake County Community Health. The daytime phone number for Wake County Community Health is 250-4462; the after-hours number is 839-3059.

Wake County Animal Control officials urge the following:

Do not approach wildlife.
Ensure pets have a current rabies vaccination.
Do not leave trash or food outside, unless it is in a trash can with a tight-fitting lid.
If a pet is fed outside, do not leave food out overnight.
Do not leave pets outdoors unattended.
Contact your veterinarian immediately, if your pet comes in contact a wild animal.

To report animal complaints and stray animals:

In Wake County (except Cary, Garner, Holly Springs and Raleigh), call 212-PETS (7387), and press 2
In Cary, call 319-4517
In Garner, call 772-8896
In Holly Springs, call 557-9111
In Raleigh, call 831-6311

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