Genesee County Health Department

Better Life Through Better Health

Animal bites are more common during the warmer months, when people and animals are more likely to have contact with one another. The most common animal bites are from dogs and cats, with dogs having the highest number of reported bites. Less common, but often more dangerous, are bites from skunks, raccoons, bats and other wild animals. The risks from a bite depends on the animal and how severe the bite is. Risks are rabies, bleeding, infection and sometimes lockjaw (Tetanus).

Over 60% of all dog bite victims are children. Never leave a small child alone with a dog or cat, even if it is a puppy or kitten. Teach children not to tease animals, pull their tails, or approach strange animals. Pet owners should always contain their animals. Avoid moving suddenly or screaming around animals. Leave an animal alone if it is eating, sleeping or caring for young. Do not feed wild or strange animals by hand. Wild animals should not be kept as pets. 

Avoid picking up a sick or injured animal. Injured and sick strays or wild animals can be handled by an animal rescue organization or by calling Animal Control. If your pet needs help, approach carefully and muzzle the animal. 

If bitten, wash the wound with soap and water and seek medical attention immediately. Call your local health department for more instruction and to report the bite. Sick, dead, or easily captured animals may be tested for rabies, especially if there is no history of rabies vaccination. Dog, cat and ferret owners should have a record of their pet’s most recent rabies shots. 

For more information call the Genesee County Health Department at 257-3612 or Genesee County Animal Control at 732-1660.