Press Releases

September 14, 2005
For Immediate Release
Media Contact: Michelle Pintar
Phone: (414) 431-6104
E-mail: mpintar@wihumane.org

MEDIA ADVISORY/PHOTO OPPORTUNITY

?Batman? in Your Living Room?  Yes; Real Bats.

MILWAUKEE ? You might enjoy Batman re-runs on television, but you wouldn't like a real, live bat flying in your home.  Bats are highly beneficial animals that eat countless numbers of flying insects and the vast majority of them are healthy; but now a fourth confirmed rabies-positive bat this summer was recently found in a home in Milwaukee.  The Wisconsin Humane Society would like to remind people about ways to be safe around wild animals:   

· If you are bitten by a bat or other wild animal or come into contact with potentially infectious bodily fluid such as saliva, wash the exposed area thoroughly with soap and water, contain the biting animal if it is safe to do so and seek medical attention immediately.  If you awaken to discover a bat in your sleeping area ? even if you don't think you have been bitten ? still immediately call your local municipal health department. 

· If you find a dead bat in your home, call your local health department to find out if they want to submit the animal for rabies testing.  Do not discard the carcass until you are told to do so by the health department.

· If there is a chance that any of your animals has been in contact with a wild animal, contact both your veterinarian and local health department immediately.  It is imperative that your animal be kept current on all vaccinations. 

· The Wisconsin Humane Society recommends that you bat-proof your home.  A few simple steps include covering any holes on the outside of your home that are larger than a quarter and caulking cracks that are 3/8? or more wide.  Maintain intact window screens, install chimney caps, make sure attic vents are covered with screening and keep all doors tightly closed.

· NEVER attempt to take in wild animals as pets or bring them into your home, and don't handle or feed them.  Also teach your children to never approach unfamiliar animals.

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Interview/Photo Opportunity:   Scott Diehl, Wildlife Manager for WHS, will be available for an interview and have a home bat-proofing display and demonstration available for photos.  To schedule an interview, contact Michelle Pintar at (414) 431-6104.