The mere thought of rabies tends to raise alarm bells if you encounter wildlife on your property. It’s a natural reaction, as this virus can be harmful if you’re bitten by an infected animal. One of the best preventative measures is arming yourself with enough knowledge to recognize the symptoms of the disease and which animals are likely to pose a threat. Here’s what you need to know about rabies and wildlife control.

A Brief Introduction to Rabies

In simplest terms, rabies is a virus that is transmitted between mammals. The most common method of infection involves a rabid animal biting another animal. However, these infected animals can also bite humans and spread the virus to them. Since it is transmitted through saliva, you may also contract rabies from an infected animal licking an open wound.

If you suspect you’ve been bitten, it’s important to take a few precautionary steps right away. The first is to seek prompt medical attention to prevent worsening of your symptoms. Clean any bites with soap and water. If the bite occurred because of an animal near your home, contact a wildlife control specialist to handle the situation promptly.

Which Animals May Have It

It’s important to note that not all animals can carry rabies. Small mammals, including guinea pigs, squirrels, rabbits, rats, mice, hamsters, and chipmunks, tend to be the lowest risk. Although you may wish to have an animal control technician remove these critters from your property, you likely don’t have to worry about bites.

Animals like raccoons, coyotes, bats, foxes, and skunks pose a more significant threat to your health. Even pets or livestock, such as cows, could be a potential risk if they haven’t received a vaccination. You can often recognize an infected animal by its behavior; it may be highly aggressive or strangely calm. Look for signs like snarling or foaming at the mouth, which can indicate a paralyzed throat. If you suspect there’s a wildlife control issue on your property, contact a professional to prevent rabies scares from impacting you and your family.

Dealing with unwanted animals at your home or workplace can be alarming. Don’t allow these persistent critters to take control—turn to the animal control professionals at American Bio-Tech Wildlife Services in New Milford, CT. Proudly serving clients throughout the state since 1971, the company handles everything from squirrel to bat removal. Visit them online to learn more about their wildlife control services, or call (860) 355-1231 to schedule an appointment.