A potential outbreak of rabies among wild animals in the area is being monitored by the Florida Department of Health-Sarasota County. The action is in response to a single confirmed case of rabies in a raccoon that was killed on Jan. 25 in the Bee Ridge area off McIntosh Road between Proctor Road and Wilkinson Road.
People and domestic animals should always avoid physical contact with wild animals such as raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats, coyotes, etc., that carry a higher risk of human exposure.
The DOH-Sarasota advises:
- Immunize pets based on veterinarian’s recommended schedule.
- Keep pets under direct supervision and on a leash. If an animal bites your pet, seek veterinary assistance immediately and contact Sarasota Animal Services at 941-861-9501.
- Avoid contact with wild or stray animals. Do not handle, feed or unintentionally attract them with outdoor pet food, open garbage cans or other food sources. If you have been bitten or scratched by a wild or domestic animal, seek medical attention and report the injury to DOH-Sarasota by calling 941-861-2873.
- Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home.
- Call Sarasota Animal Services to remove any stray animals from your neighborhood.
- Prevent wildlife, including bats, from entering living quarters or occupied spaces in homes, schools and other similar areas where they might come in contact with people and pets.
For more information on rabies, visit FloridaHealth.gov/Rabies.
