09/19/2024
It's that time of year again! The Wildlife Service (WS) program of the US Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health inspection Service (APHIS) is working with the Tennessee Department of Health to protect people and pets from the threat of rabies in our area. WS is distributing an oral rabies vaccine (ORV) bait to vaccinate raccoons, skunks, foxes, and cyotes and help stop further spread of rabies. ORV baits are about the size of a matchbox and are coated with fishmeal flavoring or a sweet vanilla wax. ORV baits will be distributed by airplane, helicopter, or car between Oct 4-21, 2024.
What if I find rabies baits?
*leave them alone unless they are where children or pets play
*wear gloves or use a paper towel or plastic bag when picking up the baits
*Toss intact baits into a wooded area or other raccoon habitat
*Practice proper hygien and wash any skin that came in contact with the bait.
What if my pet eats the bait?
* Don't panic! They are not harmful but if they eat a lot of them they may get a stomach upset
*Do not try to take the bait away from your pet and risk getting bit
*Check the area for more baits and relocate any remaining baits to a wooded area.
*Avoid your pet's saliva for 24 hours and wash any skin or wounds that may have been licked.
Questions? Call WS at 866-487-3297 or the Tennessee Department of Health 615-741-7247
