Rabies Safety Guidelines

Learn essential safety measures to protect yourself, your family, and your pets from rabies exposure. Prevention is always better than treatment.

General Safety Rules

These fundamental rules apply to everyone and should be followed at all times

Never Approach Wild Animals

Critical

Keep your distance from all wildlife, even if they appear friendly

Examples:

Don't feed wild animals
Don't attempt to pet them
Don't corner them

Keep Pets Vaccinated

High

Ensure all pets are up-to-date on rabies vaccinations

Examples:

Dogs and cats annually
Horses and livestock as recommended
Keep vaccination records

Supervise Children

High

Always supervise children around animals

Examples:

Teach them not to approach animals
Keep them away from strays
Supervise outdoor play

Secure Food Sources

Medium

Don't leave food that could attract wildlife

Examples:

Secure garbage cans
Don't leave pet food outside
Clean up after meals

Home Safety Measures

Protect your home and property from wildlife intrusion

Yard & Garden

Install secure fencing around property
Remove brush and debris where animals can hide
Keep grass and vegetation trimmed
Install motion-sensor lighting

House & Garage

Seal all entry points (cracks, holes, vents)
Keep doors and windows closed
Install chimney caps and vent covers
Store food in secure containers

Pet Areas

Keep pets indoors at night
Supervise outdoor time
Use secure kennels and runs
Clean up pet waste regularly

Outdoor Safety

Hiking & Camping

Stay on marked trails
Make noise to alert animals
Carry bear spray or deterrents
Store food in bear-proof containers
Never approach or feed wildlife

Farming & Rural Work

Wear protective clothing
Carry first aid supplies
Know emergency procedures
Keep livestock vaccinated
Use guard animals when possible

Urban Areas

Avoid stray animals
Don't feed pigeons or other urban wildlife
Report aggressive animals to authorities
Keep pets on leashes
Be aware of your surroundings

Emergency Preparedness

Emergency Contacts

Have important numbers readily available

Includes:

Local animal control
Emergency services (911)
Veterinarian
Health department

First Aid Kit

Keep basic first aid supplies on hand

Includes:

Antiseptic wipes
Bandages
Medical tape
Emergency blanket
Flashlight

Documentation

Keep important records accessible

Includes:

Pet vaccination records
Medical information
Insurance details
Emergency plan

What To Do If...

Be prepared for common wildlife encounters

Wild animal in your yard

Medium

Keep pets and children indoors, call animal control

Animal acting strangely

High

Maintain distance, document behavior, report to authorities

Pet encounters wild animal

High

Separate immediately, check for injuries, contact vet

Wild animal in your home

Critical

Evacuate area, call professionals, do not attempt removal

Stay Safe, Stay Informed

Following these safety guidelines significantly reduces your risk of rabies exposure. Remember, prevention is the best protection.

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