Guidance on Animal Bites, Exposures, and Rabies Protocol
What if I had been bitten or exposed?
- Get the name and address of the animal’s owner.
- If there is no owner, remember what the animal looked like.
- If you are bitten by a wild animal, try to safely capture or confine it.
- If the animal must be killed, try not to damage its head. Immediately wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water.
- If available, also use a disinfectant.
- Seek medical attention promptly.
- Report the bite or exposure to your local animal control agency, health department or police. Bite from a bat (CDC)
What if my pet bites someone?
- A dog, cat, or ferret that bites or exposes a person will be observed for ten days. If alive and healthy at the end of ten days, then the animal could not have transmitted rabies at the time of the bite.
What if my pet has been bitten?
- If your pet has been in a fight with a domestic animal, obtain the owner’s name, address, and telephone number.
- Avoid touching your pet with bare hands.
- Consult your veterinarian.
- Contact the local animal control agency, health department, or police.
Rabies Quarantine Types and Safety Protocols
This brochure outlines the specific quarantine periods, confinement requirements, and medical actions needed for animals exposed to rabies or involved in potential human exposures.