Georgia Coastal Health District

Rabies is a potentially fatal disease that is usually transmitted by the bite of an animal that is infected. So how can you protect yourself, your family, and your pets against rabies?

A lot of animals that can be found in Georgia such as raccoons, foxes, and bats, are carriers of rabies. That’s why it is so important to follow these tips:
• Avoid contact with animals you don’t know.
• Make sure your pets receive the proper immunizations. Dogs and cats should get rabies vaccines by four months of age, followed by a booster shot one year later, and another one every one to three years as prescribed by your veterinarian.
• Do not handle, feed, or unintentionally attract wild animals with open garbage cans or by leaving pet food out at night.
• Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home. Do not try to nurse sick animals to health.* Call animal control or a properly licensed animal rescue agency for assistance.
• Teach children to never handle unfamiliar animals, wild or domestic, even if they appear friendly. “Love your own, leave other animals alone” is a good principle for children to learn.
If an animal ever bites you, seek medical care immediately and contact your local animal control agency and county Environmental Health Division.
Want to know more about rabies? Check out the CDC website.
*By Georgia Law, most native species of wildlife cannot be held without permits or licenses. Find out more at the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Division website.