Pet Tip Tuesday- Wildlife and Your Pets

Dr. Megan Okes joins us live in our studio. This weeks topic is Wildlife and Your Pets.

Wildlife and our pets


This time of year we are seeing more wildlife out when we are, so are our pets


I just found a wild animal that is sick or injured - what do I do?

- DO NOT TOUCH the animal

- Unfortunately, veterinarians LEGALLY can’t treat wildlife- even if injured

- Wildlife is controlled by Game and Fish department- call them or animal control

- Animal can be safely captured and them taken by proper authorities to get medical attention


What problems can these wild animal pose?

  • Many wild animals- especially skunk, raccoons and fox can carry diseases that can be transmitted to you or your pets


What types of diseases?

  • The most important would be the Rabies virus

  • They also can carry canine distemper and parvo viruses

  • Intestinal worms and parasites

  • Many of these can be transmitted to you OR your pets


Is there any way to know if the animal is infected?

  • Some behavioral changes are seen with rabies: No fear of humans or animals, aggressive behavior or confusion

  • Other diseases may cause weight loss, hair loss

  • Testing is the only way to know for sure


What do I do if I or my animals have been exposed to wild animals?

  • Call animal control or game and fish to trap the animal for testing

  • Call your doctor if you have been bitten ASAP

  • Call your veterinarian if your pet has been bitten ASAP

  • Rabies is 100% FATAL to any unvaccinated mammal that becomes infected with the Rabies virus


Prevention as always is the key

  • Hide food, trash or other items that may attract animals

  • Keep your pets up to date on vaccines- especially rabies (required by law)

  • Have at least yearly intestinal deworming performed