Tag: rabies

Central Virginia Health District Confirms Rabid Fox

July 24, 2026
Media Contact: Kim Foster, kimberlee.foster@vdh.virginia.gov

Central Virginia Health District Confirms Rabid Fox

LYNCHBURG, Va. – The Lynchburg Health Department has received confirmation that a fox has tested positive for rabies. The fox was in the vicinity of Hancock Street in Lynchburg. Anyone who may have been exposed to a fox or other animal, by a bite, scratch or contact with saliva, in that area should consult with their physician and contact the Lynchburg Health Department at (434) 477-5921. You may also contact the health department by email at askCVHD@vdh.virginia.gov.

This incident is a reminder that rabies is present in Virginia and sometimes infects domestic animals like dogs and cats. Rabies is caused by a virus that attacks the nervous system and is lethal if proper medical care is not given following an exposure to the virus. The most common source of exposure to rabies is a bite by a rabid animal. Rabies may also be transmitted by saliva from a rabid animal coming into contact with open wounds,
the mouth, eyes or nose.

Everyone should take common sense measures to protect themselves and their domestic animals from rabies. Pet owners should keep their pets up to date on their rabies vaccinations. Virginia law requires that all dogs and cats four months of age and older be vaccinated for rabies by a licensed veterinarian, and that vaccinations be kept current. It is important to avoid contact with wild or stray animals, and parents should be sure that
their children are taught to not touch, pet or otherwise handle unknown animals.

Additional steps that can be taken to prevent rabies in people and pets include:

• Do not feed stray animals. Avoid wild animals, especially raccoons, bats, foxes and skunks. Feed your pets indoors and do not let them wander.
• Teach children to avoid contact with wild animals and pets they are not familiar with.
• Do not handle sick, injured or dead animals. Contact a licensed wildlife rehabber if you have concerns about sick or injured wildlife.
• Keep wild animals out of homes by capping chimneys with screens and blocking openings in attics, cellars and porches. Ensure trash cans have tight fitting lids.
• Do not try to trap or handle stray and wild animals. If a bat is found indoors and may have had contact with someone, do not release it. Call your local animal control officer or health department to determine if the animal should be picked up and tested for rabies.
• Report all bites to people to the local health department for investigation.

If you are bitten by a wild or stray animal do not panic. Wash the wound(s) thoroughly with warm soapy water and contact animal control, your doctor or the health department for further recommendations.

For more information about rabies, https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/animal-contact-human-health/rabies
control/.

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Alerts the Rappahannock-Rapidan Residents of Rabid bats, cats, racoons and skunks.

July 10, 2026
Media Contact: Dr. Zelalem Attlee, Zelalem.Attlee@vdh.virginia.gov

 The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Alerts the Rappahannock-Rapidan Residents of Rabid bats, cats, racoons and skunks.
Public Urged to Avoid Contact with Wild Animals.

WARRENTON, Va. – The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District has confirmed a case of rabies involving bats, cats, racoons and skunks. The bats, cats, racoons and skunks were found near the area of Culpeper (1 bat and 1 skunk), in Fauquier (3 racoons and 1 skunk), in Madison (1 skunk) and in Orange (1 cat and 1 skunk). The animals were observed exhibiting unusual behavior during the first quarter of the year. No known exposures to the animals have been reported.

“Protecting our communities from rabies begins with prevention and awareness” said Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Director J. Carr, M.D. “We urge all residents to avoid contact with wild animals and unfamiliar pets, ensure their dogs and cats are current on rabies vaccinations, and report any unusual animal behavior to local Animal Control. Taking these simple precautions can protect your family, your pets, and our community from this serious but preventable disease.”

Rabies is commonly found in Virginia in wild animals, such as raccoons, skunks, and foxes. In the first quarter of 2026, 117 animals tested positive with rabies in the state. In Culpeper (1 bat and 1 skunk), in Fauquier (3 racoons and 1 skunk), in Madison (1 skunk) and in Orange (1 cat and 1 skunk), 9 rabid animals have been reporter in the first quarter of 2026.

Rabies is caused by a virus that attacks the nervous system and is lethal if proper medical care is not given following an exposure to the virus. The most common source of exposure to rabies is a bite by a rabid animal. Rabies may also be transmitted by saliva from a rabid animal coming into contact with open wounds, the mouth, eyes or nose.

Virginia law requires all dogs and cats four months of age and older be vaccinated for rabies by a licensed veterinarian. Vaccinations must be kept current.

All mammals, including humans, can get rabies. Symptoms may appear as early as a few days or as long as several months after exposure.

Actions you should take to prevent rabies in people and pets include:

  • Be sure that your pets are up to date on their rabies vaccinations.
  • Avoid contact with wild animals or stray animals.
  • Do not feed stray animals. Avoid wild animals, especially raccoons, bats, foxes, and skunks. Feed your pets indoors and do not let them wander.
  • Teach children to avoid contact with wild animals and pets they are not familiar with.
  • Do not handle sick, injured or dead animals. Contact the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources(DWR) or a licensed wildlife rehabilitator if you have concerns about sick or injured wildlife.
  • Keep wild animals out of homes by capping chimneys with screens and blocking openings in attics, cellars and porches. Ensure trash cans have tight fitting lids.
  • Do not try to trap or handle stray and wild animals. If a bat is found indoors and may have had contact with someone, do not release it. Call your local animal control officer or health department to determine if the animal should be picked up and tested for rabies.
  • Report all bites to people to the local health department for investigation.

If you are bitten by a wild or stray animal do not panic. Wash the wound(s) thoroughly with warm soapy water and contact animal control, your doctor or the health department for further recommendations.

For more information, please contact the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District at www.rrhd.org or visit the Virginia Department of Health’s rabies website or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s rabies website.

# # #

Feral Cat Tests Positive for Rabies in Isle of Wight

July 16, 2026

Media Contact: Joseph Everett, Environmental Health Manager
757-514-4751

Feral Cat Tests Positive for Rabies in Isle of Wight

SMITHFIELD, Va. -The Isle of Wight County Health Department is alerting the public that a feral cat that had been in the area of the 200 block of Turnberry Road tested positive for rabies. After a resident took it in because of its poor health, the cat was humanely euthanized, and testing confirmed rabies. Anyone who may have come in contact with the feral cat should contact the Isle of Wight County Health Department as soon as possible to discuss potential rabies exposure.

Rabies is a fatal disease, but it can be prevented. The most common way people are exposed to rabies is when an infected animal bites or scratches them. The infected animal’s saliva enters the body through an open wound or mucous membrane. Prompt evaluation and complete treatment are critical. Unfortunately, there is no cure for rabies, and without preventive treatment, by the time someone develops symptoms of rabies, the disease is fatal in almost 100% of cases. The disease is also fatal in unvaccinated infected domestic dogs and cats.  Rabies is highly preventable if the vaccine is given early.

Angela Tillery, health director for the Western Tidewater Health District, strongly recommends that Isle of Wight County residents protect their families and their pets from rabies.

  • If your pet has been in contact with an animal that might be rabid, contact Isle of Wight County Animal Control at 757-365-6318 or the Isle of Wight County Health Department at 757-279-3078.
  • Seek prompt medical treatment for any animal bite to ensure timely evaluation and treatment. All animal exposures must be taken seriously.
  • Do not approach wild or stray animals, especially raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, cats and dogs.
  • Ensure all pet dogs, cats and ferrets have current rabies vaccinations. Please consult your veterinarian, Isle of Wight Animal Control, or the Isle of Wight Health Department if you have any questions about pet vaccinations.
  • Confine your pets to your property.
  • Securely seal garbage containers with lids.

State law requires all dogs and cats over the age of four months to be vaccinated against rabies. For more information on rabies, contact the Isle of Wight County Health Department at 757-279-3078, Isle of Wight County Animal Control at 757-365-6318, or visit the Virginia Department of Health or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

 

###

New River Health District Hosting Mid-Summer Family Fun Fest Event

July 10, 2026
Media Contact: Noelle Bissell, M.D., health director, 540-585-3300

New River Health District Hosting Mid-Summer Family Fun Fest Event

PULASKI, Va. – The New River Health District (NRHD) will host its first Mid-Summer Family Fun Fest event on Friday, July 17 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Pulaski County Middle School, 4396 Lee Highway in Pulaski.

The NRHD is partnering with other local agencies and organizations to offer the community a one-stop shop to learn more about available programs and services and enjoy a day of fun. Services to be offered include:

  • FREE rabies vaccinations for dogs and cats. Dogs must be leashed and cats must be in carriers. Pets must remain under owners’ control.
  • Back-to-school immunizations billed to insurance and a limited supply of free vaccines for the uninsured.
  • School physicals billed to insurance or at a low rate for same day payment.
  • Sports physicals available for $40 each.
  • FREE lunch including sandwiches, chips, fruit, dessert, and a beverage.
  • Lots of giveaways and activities.

In addition to partnering organizations, the NRHD will have tables set up for each of its major programs, along with giveaways for people that stop by. Participants will have a chance to learn more about the following resources:

  • Community Outreach: Learn how NRHD can provide health education and information at your next work or community event.
  • Environmental Health Food Safety Program: Learn about safe food preparation and storage, as well as how restaurant inspections are performed by NRHD.
  • Environmental Health Rabies Program: Hear how to assess your family’s risk of exposure to rabies.
  • Environmental Health Septic and Well Services: Discover how systems operate and what you can do to ensure yours is well maintained.
  • Emergency Preparedness and Response Programs: Get tips to ensure your loved ones are ready for natural disasters and other response events.
  • Immunizations: Get required back-to-school vaccinations.
  • Resource Mothers and BabyCare Services: Information for eligible pregnant and parenting women.
  • Rise Above Program: Hear how this program helps individuals at-risk for and with a history of substance use can get assistance and a path toward recovery.
  • Physicals: For those seeking required school and sports physicals.
  • Summer Safety: Learn how to protect yourself from the sun, the extreme heat and more.
  • Ticks: Get information on how to identify various ticks and how to protect yourself from them.
  • Vital Records: See how to request birth, death, marriage and divorce records.
  • WIC Services: Learn if you are eligible for the nutrition education and supplement program.

The NRHD wanted to offer community members of all ages a chance to connect with the wonderful programs and services available to support them, no matter where they are in life. This event offers programs and activities for young children through older adults, families and single individuals, as well as those with pets.

Information and services will be available from the following partnering agencies:

  • Imagination Library of Montgomery County
  • Pulaski Free Clinic
  • NRV Recovery Ecosystem
  • Pulaski County Office of Prevention and Recovery
  • New River Valley Agency on Aging
  • Department of Aging and Rehabilitation Services
  • YMCA of Pulaski
  • New River Community Action – CHIP
  • Pulaski County Library System
  • New River Valley Senior Services and Pulaski Area Transit
  • New River Community Action
  • Women’s Resource Center of the New River Valley
  • Virginia Tech Public Health
  • UVA Comprehensive Cancer Center

“We are all about meeting people where they are. We want our community to get to know us and all that we can offer by helping folks access programs and services that are here to support them,” said Noelle Bissell M.D., New River Health District director. “Whether it is difficult to take time away from work to take your child for back-to-school shots, or you just aren’t sure what programs are available to you, we want people to take advantage of this opportunity. We are bringing a lot of those resources and programs together at a time when we hope people can come and join us.”

The other goal of the event is to reinforce a sense of community – community between individuals – and also the sense of community where so many agencies and organizations are coming together to make themselves available to their fellow community members. “We want folks to come by, see what it is all about, share a meal, and feel valued and appreciated as a member of the NRV community,” said Dr. Bissell.

For more information, please contact the New River Health District at 540-585-3300 or visit the health district Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/NewRiverHealthDistrict.

Feral Cat Tests Positive for Rabies in Suffolk

 

June 24, 2026

Media Contact: Joseph Everett, Environmental Health Manager, 757-514-4751

 

Feral Cat Tests Positive for Rabies in Suffolk

SUFFOLK, Va. – The Suffolk Health Department is alerting the public that a feral cat tested positive for rabies. The cat was adopted by a concerned member of the public residing in the 100 block of Cove Point Drive. Due to the extent of its symptoms and health condition, the cat was humanely euthanized and tested for rabies.

 

Rabies is a fatal disease, but it can be prevented. The most common way people are exposed to rabies is when an infected animal bites or scratches them.   The infected animal’s saliva enters the body through an open wound or mucous membrane. Prompt evaluation and complete treatment are critical. Unfortunately, there is no cure for rabies, and without preventive treatment, by the time someone develops symptoms of rabies, the disease is fatal in almost 100% of cases. The disease is also fatal in unvaccinated infected domestic dogs and cats.  Rabies is highly preventable if the vaccine is given early.

 

Angela Tillery, health director for the Western Tidewater Health District, strongly recommends Suffolk residents protect their families and their pets from rabies.

 

  • If your pet has been in contact with an animal that might be rabid, contact Suffolk Animal Control at 757-514-7855 or the Suffolk Health Department at 757- 514-4751.

 

  • Seek prompt medical treatment for any animal bite to ensure timely evaluation and treatment. All animal exposures must be taken seriously.

 

  • Do not approach wild or stray animals, especially raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, cats and dogs.

 

  • Ensure all pet dogs, cats and ferrets have current rabies vaccinations. Please consult your veterinarian, Suffolk Animal Control, or the Suffolk Health Department if you have any questions about pet vaccinations.

 

  • Confine your pets to your property.

 

  • Securely seal garbage containers with lids.

 

State law requires all dogs and cats over the age of four months to be vaccinated against rabies. For more information on rabies, contact the Suffolk Health Department at 757-514-4751, Suffolk Animal Control at 757- 514-7855, or visit the Virginia Department of Health or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

###

Fox Tests Positive for Rabies in Suffolk

June 19, 2026

Media Contact: Joseph Everett, Environmental Health Manager, 757-514-4751

 

Fox Tests Positive for Rabies in Suffolk

SUFFOLK, Va.– The Suffolk Health Department is alerting the public that a fox tested positive for rabies. The fox was captured in the 200 block of Beechwood Drive by Suffolk Animal Control. Due to the extent of its symptoms and health condition, the fox was humanely euthanized and tested for rabies.

Rabies is a fatal disease, but it can be prevented. The most common way people are exposed to rabies is when an infected animal bites or scratches them.   The infected animal’s saliva enters the body through an open wound or mucous membrane. Prompt evaluation and complete treatment is critical. Unfortunately, there is no cure for rabies, and without preventive treatment, by the time someone develops symptoms of rabies, the disease is fatal in almost 100% of cases. The disease is also fatal in unvaccinated infected domestic dogs and cats.  Rabies is highly preventable if the vaccine is given early.

Angela Tillery, health director for the Western Tidewater Health District, strongly recommends Suffolk residents protect their families and their pets from rabies.

  • If your pet has been in contact with an animal that might be rabid, contact Suffolk Animal Control at 757-514-7855 or the Suffolk Health Department at 757- 514-4751.
  • Seek prompt medical treatment for any animal bite to ensure timely evaluation and treatment. All animal exposures must be taken seriously.
  • Do not approach wild or stray animals, especially raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, cats and dogs.
  • Ensure all pet dogs, cats and ferrets have current rabies vaccinations. Please consult your veterinarian, Suffolk Animal Control, or the Suffolk Health Department if you have any questions about pet vaccinations.
  • Confine your pets to your property.
  • Securely seal garbage containers with lids.

State law requires all dogs and cats over the age of four months to be vaccinated, against rabies. For more information on rabies, contact the Suffolk Health Department at 757-514-4751, Suffolk Animal Control at 757-514-7855, or visit the Virginia Department of Health or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

 

###

Central Shenandoah Health District Reports Rabid Raccoon in Waynesboro

June 15, 2026
Media Contact: Rachel Dumene, Rachel.dumene1@vdh.virginia.gov, 540-480-4998

Central Shenandoah Health District Reports Rabid Raccoon in Waynesboro

WAYNESBORO, Va. – The Central Shenandoah Health District (CSHD) is notifying the community that a raccoon found near the vicinity of Nottingham Lane in Waynesboro tested positive for rabies on June 12, 2026. At this time, officials are seeking information about any possible human or animal exposures linked to this rabid animal.

The racoon was collected and euthanized due to injuries, which may indicate a recent encounter with another animal.

“While humans might know not to approach wild animals, it’s a different story for pets,” said Jason Weakley, the environmental health manager at CSHD. “Keeping your cats and dogs up to date on their rabies vaccination helps protect them from the virus. If your pet is attacked or bitten by a wild animal, be sure to report it to your local health department or animal control authorities. If your pet has unexplained wounds or injuries, please have them checked by your veterinarian.”

Anyone having information regarding any potential exposure to this animal via a bite, scratch or contact with saliva in an open wound or through the eyes, nose or mouth should contact the Staunton-Augusta Health Department Environmental Health Office at (540) 332-7830. Exposures also include direct contact between your pet and the rabid animal.

Central Shenandoah Health District reminds all residents to follow these important rabies prevention guidelines:

  • Do not feed stray animals.
  • Avoid wild animals, especially raccoons, bats, foxes and skunks.
  • Feed your pets indoors and do not let them wander.
  • Make sure your pets are vaccinated against rabies and their shots are up to date. By law, dogs and cats must be vaccinated against rabies.
  • Teach children to avoid contact with wild animals and unfamiliar pets.
  • Do not handle sick, injured or dead animals. If you see a wild animal that appears to be ill, injured or orphaned, contact the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources or a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for guidance.
  • Keep wild animals out of homes by capping chimneys with screens and blocking openings in attics, cellars and porches.
  • Ensure trash cans have tight fitting lids

Rabies is linked to a virus that attacks the nervous system and can be deadly if not properly treated. If you are bitten by a wild or stray animal, wash the wound(s) thoroughly with warm soapy water and contact animal control, your healthcare provider or the Health Department.

For more information about rabies, visit the VDH Rabies webpage.

# # #

Health Officials Seek Public’s Help Finding Dog That Bit Person in Newport News

May 26, 2026

Media Contact: Mary Wainwright, Environmental Health Manager,
(757) 508-0970

 

Health Officials Seek Public’s Help Finding Dog That Bit Person in Newport News

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – The Hampton and Peninsula Health Districts are looking for a small gray, tan and black American pit bull terrier that bit a person near the 900 block of Shore Drive in Newport News on Friday, May 22.

If the dog is not found, the victim may have to undergo post-exposure treatment (shots) to prevent rabies. Once found, the dog will not be taken away from its owner, only placed on an in-home confinement period of 10 days.

Anyone who has seen an animal that fits this description in this area is asked to contact the appropriate Animal Control Office listed below:

Hampton:   757-727-6111

Newport News/Poquoson:   757-595-7387

Williamsburg/JCC:   757-565-0370 (daytime); 757-253-1800 (evenings, weekends, holidays)

York County:   757-890-3601

Residents are reminded to:

  • Report all bite exposures.
  • Enjoy wildlife from a distance.
  • Make sure family pets are vaccinated and protected against rabies.

Virginia state law requires that dogs and cats be vaccinated between 3 and 4 months of age and thereafter to maintain protection against rabies. Please contact your veterinarian for more information.

###

Rappahannock Area Health District Reports Rabies Case in Stray Cat in Spotsylvania County

May 14, 2026
Media Contact: Erin Perkins, erin.perkins@vdh.virginia.gov

Rappahannock Area Health District Reports Rabies Case in Stray Cat in Spotsylvania County
Rabid cat confirmed in 11800 Block of Fillmore Lane (Sheraton Hills South Subdivision)

SPOTSYLVANIA COUNTY, Va. – The Rappahannock Area Health District (RAHD) has confirmed a stray cat has tested positive for rabies.  The cat was collected in the 11800 Block of Fillmore Lane in Spotsylvania County and confined for observation at the Spotsylvania Animal Control where it later became ill and was euthanized. The cat is known to be part of a feral cat population of the neighborhood (Sheraton Hills South Subdivision).

The Health Department is notifying the public in case any people or pets may have had contact with this rabid cat on or shortly before May 9, 2026. The rabid cat was black in color, domestic short hair, and an intact male. If there has been any contact/exposure between humans and/or domestic animals with this cat, or any wild or domestic animal behaving abnormally, please report this to the Spotsylvania Animal Control (540-582-7115) and the Spotsylvania Health Department (540-507-7386). On weekends or after hours, call the Virginia Department of Health 24-hour answering service at 866-531-3068 and ask for the staff member on call for the Rappahannock Area Health District/Spotsylvania County Health Department.

Any exposed/potentially exposed individuals should seek medical advice promptly to evaluate whether rabies prevention medication is needed. Likewise, please consult your veterinarian if your pet was exposed/possibly exposed to a potentially rabid animal (such as a fox, raccoon, skunk, opossum, etc.).

Rabies is a deadly disease caused by a virus that attacks the nervous system. It is preventable in animals through vaccinations but is fatal to both animals and humans if left untreated. Exposure to rabies is considered anytime there is a bite or scratch, or other circumstance, where saliva or central nervous system (brain or spinal cord) tissue from a rabid or potentially rabid animal enters an open, fresh wound or comes in contact with a mucous membrane by entering the eye, mouth, or nose.

The Code of Virginia requires owners of dogs and cats to maintain current rabies vaccinations for animals four months old and older. In addition, residents should not approach or touch wild animals or unknown domestic animals and should report any abnormal behavior involving these animals. All animal bites and rabies exposures (from both wild and domestic animals) must be reported to Spotsylvania County Animal Control at 540-582-7115.

To prevent the spread of rabies:

  • AVOID contact with wild animals and domestic animals you do not know.
  • REPORT unusual acting animals.
  • VACCINATE all dogs, cats and ferrets and keep their vaccinations current.
  • CALL your doctor and the local health department if you are exposed, or call your veterinarian and local animal control if your pet is exposed.

Vaccinating domestic animals (dogs, cats, ferrets) also protects people from getting rabies. If the domestic animal is properly vaccinated, it breaks the transmission cycle of a wild animal infecting a domestic animal (pet), and that animal infecting the pet owner.

While intentions are good, please do not put food out for stray or feral (wild domestic) animals. This will bring domestic and wild animals into close contact where transmission of the rabies virus is more likely to occur. If you have pets that live outside, feed and water them in a manner that does not attract wild animals.

# # #

Chesapeake Health Department Hosts $10 Rabies Vaccination Clinic

April 22, 2026
Media Contact: Kimi Stevens, kimi.stevens@vdh.virginia.gov

 

Chesapeake Health Department Hosts $10 Rabies Vaccination Clinic

CHESAPEAKE, Va. –  The Chesapeake Health Department will hold its onsite spring $10 Rabies Vax Clinic on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to noon 748 Battlefield Blvd. N, Chesapeake, Va. 23320.

One-year rabies vaccinations are available for pets without a current rabies certificate. Three-year rabies vaccinations are available for pets with a current rabies certification in need of renewal.

$10 cash only will be accepted per pet on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last. A limited number of pre-registrations will be accepted. Email https://shorturl.at/sUz6q by 5:00 p.m. April 23, 2026.

Pets MUST BE LEASHED OR CRATED. No exceptions. All proceeds benefit Chesapeake Animal Services.

Rabies is commonly found in wild animals, such as raccoons, skunks, and foxes. Wild animals can also spread rabies to unvaccinated feral and domestic pets and livestock.

Rabies illness symptoms include abnormal behavior, difficulty swallowing, poor balance, paralysis and seizures. Once any mammal becomes ill with rabies, progression to death typically occurs rapidly. If left untreated in humans, rabies is 100% fatal.

“Rabies is entirely preventable and one bite can change a life.” said Derek D. Hunt, Environmental Health Manager. “Protect yourself, your pets, and your community by keeping animals vaccinated and avoiding contact with wildlife.” Virginia law requires all dogs and cats four months of age and older be vaccinated for rabies by a licensed veterinarian. Vaccinations must be kept current.

To protect yourself and your animals from rabies:

  • Do not attempt to capture or feed a stray animal. Report strays to Chesapeake Non-Emergency Dispatch. 757-382-6161.
  • Avoid wild animals, especially raccoons, bats, foxes and skunks. Wild animals are not pets.
  • Do not handle sick, injured or dead animals. Instead, report these animals to the Department of Wildlife Resources. Permitted wildlife rehabilitators is another option.
  • Teach children to avoid contact with wild animals and unfamiliar pets.
  • Feed your pets indoors and do not let them wander.
  • Keep wild animals out of your home and business by capping chimneys with screens. Block openings in attics, cellars and porches. Ensure trash cans have tight fitting lids.
  • Make sure your pets are vaccinated against rabies and their shots are up to date. By law, all dogs and cats must be vaccinated against rabies.

Anyone potentially exposed to a rabid animal should notify their healthcare provider immediately. Exposure includes any bites, scratches or contact with saliva.

If you are bitten by a wild or stray animal, do not panic. Wash animal bite wounds thoroughly with soap and water to decrease the chance of infection. Contact your healthcare provider or the Chesapeake Health Department for further recommendations.

If your pet is attacked or bitten by an animal, Chesapeake Non-Emergency Dispatch. 757-382-6161.

For more information about rabies, visit the Virginia Department of Health Rabies Control webpage.

# # #