Press Releases

August 1 , 2005
For Immediate Release
Media Contact: Michelle Pintar
Phone: (414) 431-6104
E-mail: mpintar@wihumane.org

Rabies Reminder Tips

MILWAUKEE – The Wisconsin Humane Society and the City of Milwaukee Health Department officially declared July as Rabies Awareness Month during a press conference on July 1. Although July has passed and August is in full gear, it doesn't mean the community should forget about rabies. Now is also the time the wildlife animal population is high. The Wisconsin Humane Society would like to remind people about the following:

·   Since May 23, three bats have tested positive for rabies in the City of Milwaukee . 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 discover an animal, such as a bat, in a bedroom – even if you don't think you have been bitten – still immediately seek medical attention and call your local municipal health department.

·   After finding a dead wild animal in your home, wear leather work gloves and ideally without handling it directly, place the animal in a box, securely taping the box shut. You should proceed to call your local health department for information about where to take the bat, raccoon or other wild animal for rabies testing.

·   If there is a chance your companion animal 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. Also, if your animal is acting in unusual ways – staggering around, not displaying his or her normal personality, etc. contact your vet immediately.

·   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 closed tightly.

·   NEVER attempt to take in wild animals as companion animals or bring them into your home, and don't handle or feed them. Also teach your children to never approach unfamiliar animals.·   The vast majority of bats are healthy, beneficial creatures that consume large numbers of insects, such as mosquitoes.

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Interview/Photo Opportunity: Scott Diehl, Wildlife Manager for WHS, will be available for an interview and have young raccoons, opossums and gray squirrels available for photos. To schedule an interview, contact Michelle Pintar at (414) 431-6104.