Rabies alert

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY ANIMAL SERVICES AND THE HEALTH DEPARTMENT URGE PET OWNERS TO VACCINATE AGAINST RABIES


The Health Department has confirmed this week that a bat in the zip code area 33177 tested positive for the rabies virus. Unfortunately, before it died the bat bit a person. Citizens seeking information regarding rabies can call the Miami-Dade County’s Health Department at 305 324-2400.

“The rabies virus is spread when an infected animal bites or scratches another animal or person. All pets should be vaccinated against rabies, as that is the best way to protect pets and people from this deadly disease,” said Dr. Sara Pizano, Miami-Dade County Animal Services Director.

Miami-Dade County Health Department and Animal Services officials are urging the public to help protect themselves and to prevent the spread of rabies by taking the following steps:

Keep rabies vaccinations up-to-date for all dogs, cats and ferrets. It’s the law!
Do not allow your pets to run free. If a wild animal bites your pet, seek veterinary assistance for the animal immediately.
Call Animal Services at 311 to have stray dogs removed.
Feed your pets indoors.
Don’t use your hands to break up a fight between animals.
Spay or neuter your pets to help reduce the number of unwanted pets that may not be properly cared for or regularly vaccinated.
Avoid direct contact with unfamiliar animals.
Do not handle, or feed wild animals (raccoons, bats, skunks, foxes) or unintentionally attract them with open garbage cans or litter.
Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home. Do not try to nurse sick animals to health.
Teach children never to handle unfamiliar animals, wild or domestic, even if they appear friendly.
Prevent bats from entering living quarters or occupied spaces in homes, churches and schools, where they might come in contact with people and pets. If you find a bat in your home, contact the health department.
When traveling abroad, avoid direct contact with wild animals and be especially careful around dogs in developing countries.
For additional information, please visit CDC’s website or Miami-Dade Animal Services website.