Bitten by an animal? Here are some tips on what to do

Whether it was a stray, a wild animal or a strange pet, if you've been bitten or scratched, the Sudbury and District Health Unit (SDHU) wants to hear from you.

The SDHU investigates all reported animal bites and scratches. Most investigations involve pet cats and dogs, although some involve stray and wild animals.

If an animal bites or scratches you:

- Obtain the name, address and phone number of the animal owner;
- Immediately wash the wound with soap and water;
- Get medical attention as soon as possible;
- Report the bite or scratch to the Health Unit and provide the name and address of the pet owner, a description of the animal and any other information that will help find the animal.

If a pet cat or dog bites or scratches a person, a public health inspector will visit the pet twice at its home to assess the animal’s health. The second visit will occur 10 days after the bite to verify the animal is not rabid.

May is Rabies Awareness Month in Ontario.

During this month the Sudbury & District Health Unit aims to increase awareness on the effects of rabies as well as to promote responsible pet ownership through rabies vaccination. Not only is having your cats and dogs vaccinated against rabies the most effective way to protect your pet and your family, it is also the law.

Rabies is a disease that affects both domestic and wild animals. Although foxes, raccoons, skunks and bats are the main carriers of rabies in Ontario, household pets are key links to spreading the disease from wild animals to humans, the health unit said.

The virus is usually spread to humans through close contact with saliva through bites or scratches. Rabies is fatal if you are infected and do not receive timely treatment.

Last year, the Health Unit investigated over 250 animal bites or situations where a person may have come in contact with a potentially rabid animal. In relation to these cases, nine people were vaccinated against rabies as a precaution.

The SDHU said to remember:
- Ask the owner’s permission before touching a pet;
- Approach pets slowly and carefully;
- Stay away from stray and wild animals; and
- Stay calm around animals.

It's also important not to:
- Make loud noises around pets;
- Bother a pet while it is sleeping or eating;
- Tease an animal; or
- Let children try to help a hurt animal; get an adult to help.

To report a scratch or a bite, or for more information, call the SDHU at 705.522.9200, ext. 398, or toll free 1.866.522.9200.

Visit sdhu.com for more information.