When coming across wild animals, these creatures can carry many different diseases which can harm humans if they come in contact. But few are more well-known or scarier than rabies, which most people know of.
On one hand, the number of rabies-related deaths are falling, due to advances in medicine. But on the other hand, rabies still poses an extreme threat of death to pets, whose immune systems are not as strong, along with long-term issues for humans as well.
Only Mammals Get Rabies
To begin with, the only types of animals which can get rabies are mammals. Amphibians, birds, fish and reptiles are all immune to the disease which attacks the nervous system.
The reason why rabies deaths are rare is because it is only secreted in saliva and it is difficult to become infected unless you are bit by a rabies-carrying animals.
When rabies is found in wild animals, it most commonly carried by skunks, raccoons, coyotes, foxes and bats.
Additionally, household pets such as dogs and cats can become infected, although vaccinations are potentially available for those animals.
Rabid Infections
Once an animal has become infected with rabies, there is immediate neurological damage which completely changes the way an infected animal acts compared to a non-infected one. There are two different reactions which are common.
The first is an agitated state, where the infected animal may be dazed, wandering in circles, drooling, snapping at moving and inanimate objects and displaying generally aggressive behavior.
The other state is a dumbed-down, tame state where the animals lose their natural fear of humans. In addition to losing their fear of humans, they will display unusual behavior.
For example, nocturnal animals venture out during the day, and if you see animals displaying those symptoms, leave the area immediately.
What Are the Causes?
For the most part, rabies deaths have been narrowed down to two specific causes: dogs and bats.
While dog vaccinations exist in the United States, poorer countries are unable to afford the medication and rabies can spread as a result.
In the US, the most common threat are bites from bats that are very common in North America.
Along with bats, raccoons and skunks have been shown to transmit rabies as well.
Encountering a Rabid Wild Animal: Safety First
Encountering a Rabid Wild Animal: Safety First
Rabies is a fatal viral disease that affects the central nervous system of mammals. It is transmitted through a bite or scratch from an infected animal. If left untreated, rabies can lead to paralysis, seizures, and ultimately, death.
Signs of a Rabid Animal
It’s crucial to recognize the signs of a rabid animal:
- Aggressive Behavior: This can include unprovoked attacks, snarling, or hissing.
- Abnormal Posture: The animal may appear disoriented or have a hunched back.
- Excessive Salivation: The animal may drool or foam at the mouth.
- Dilated Pupils: The animal’s pupils may be unusually large.
- Paralysis: In advanced stages, the animal may experience partial or complete paralysis.
If You Encounter a Rabid Animal:
- Maintain a Safe Distance: Do not approach the animal, as it may become more aggressive.
- Avoid Eye Contact: Direct eye contact can be perceived as a threat, triggering an attack.
- Back Away Slowly: Retreat calmly, avoiding sudden movements that could startle the animal.
- Seek Shelter: If possible, find a safe place to hide, such as a building or vehicle.
- Report the Incident: Contact local animal control or wildlife authorities immediately. Provide them with a detailed description of the animal, its location, and any unusual behavior you observed.
If You Are Bitten:
- Wash the Wound Thoroughly: Use soap and warm water to clean the bite area.
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Even if the bite is minor, it’s essential to consult a doctor. Rabies is a serious illness that requires prompt treatment.
- Provide Information to your Doctor: Share details about the encounter, including the type of animal, its behavior, and the location of the bite.
Preventing Rabies:
- Vaccinate your Pets: Ensure your dogs and cats are up-to-date on their rabies vaccinations.
- Avoid Contact with Wild Animals: Do not attempt to handle or feed wild animals.
- Secure Garbage and Pet Food: Store food and water in containers that are inaccessible to animals.
- Repair Any Holes or Gaps in your Fencing: This will help prevent wild animals from entering your property.
By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce your risk of encountering a rabid animal and protect yourself and your loved ones.
Animal Problem? Call Shumaker!
If you come across any wild animals displaying symptoms of rabies, do not engage them and remove yourself from the area.
If the animal problem is on your property, call the experts at Shumaker Animal Control to deal with the problem for you.
Our experienced team will take care of the problem in a timely manner, ensuring that you, your home and pets are not in any danger.
At Shumaker Animal Control, we are a family-owned business who cares about the safety of you and your family but also about the well-being of the animals themselves.
All of our trapping and control methods are humane, as we never try to hurt the angry or scared animal.
