Keep dogs within your sight (in a fenced yard, or on leash) during the day while outside.
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Residents should avoid leaving pet food and water outside because it encourages wildlife activity around the home. Foxes are active at night but can also be seen out during the day, especially if they are looking for food for their pups.
“Love your own, leave other animals alone”.
The bat is the fifth rabid bat found in Will County this year, out of 57 bats sent for rabies testing, health department officials said. Rabid wildlife might also stumble or have trouble walking. In 2014, a total of 13 bat rabies cases were confirmed in Will County. Low-priced rabies clinics are provided by the health department and St. Mary’s Animal Welfare League from March through November. The animal was confirmed positive for rabies Tuesday, July 7. The health department investigates reports of animal bites and, based on the outcome of the investigation, refers the affected person(s) to the hospital’s emergency department or to their primary health care provider for treatment and vaccination.
Although the cases are rare, it’s important for pet owners to be vigilant about the disease because it can easily be transmitted to humans, said Christie Michie, an epidemiologist with the health department.
Vaccinate your pets against rabies by using a licensed veterinarian.
In animals, the CDC lists the following symptoms: cerebral dysfunction, cranial nerve dysfunction, ataxia, weakness, paralysis, seizures, difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing, excessive salivation, abnormal behavior, aggression, and/or self-mutilation.
Rabies is a usually fatal viral disease which attacks the central nervous system.
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We have a list of prevention tips on the side of this page.
