DOH-Santa Rosa Reminds Residents to Avoid Contact with Wild and Stray Animals

Milton, Fla. – The Florida Department of Health in Santa Rosa County (DOH-Santa Rosa) urges residents to avoid contact with wild and stray animals, especially bats, to prevent rabies exposure. Florida’s bat maternity season begins April 16 and lasts through August 14 each year. Bats will often shelter in man-made spaces like attics and covered porches.

Remember these tips to protect yourself, family members, and pets:

• Immunize your pets and livestock based on your veterinarian’s recommended schedule.
• Keep pets under direct supervision and on a leash, and keep livestock secured on your property. If an animal bites your pet or livestock, seek veterinary assistance for the animal immediately and contact Santa Rosa County Animal Services at 850-983-4680.
• Avoid contact with wild or stray animals. Do not handle, feed, or unintentionally attract them with outdoor pet food, open garbage cans, or other sources of food. If you have been bitten or scratched by a wild or domestic animal, seek medical attention, and report the injury to DOH-Santa Rosa by calling 850-564-2269.
• Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home; instead contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
• Call your local animal control agency to remove any stray animals from your neighborhood. Contact Santa Rosa County Animal Services at 850-983-4680.
• 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, please visit FloridaHealth.gov/Rabies or contact DOH-Santa Rosa at 850-564-2269