A rabies alert has been issued for the northwest Pasco County after a cat tested positive for rabies.

The recent rabies alert is for 60 days. The center of the rabies alert includes the following area boundaries:

  • North of Hudson Ave.
  • South of County Line Rd
  • East of Little Road
  • West of Shady Hills

Health officials recommend the following:

  • Keep rabies vaccinations up to date for all pets.
  • If your pet is bitten by a wild animal, seek veterinary assistance for the animal immediately.
  • Do not handle, feed, or unintentionally attract wild animals by leaving pet food outside, or garbage cans open.
  • Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home.
  • Teach children never to handle unfamiliar animals, wild or domestic, even if they appear friendly.
  • Prevent bats from entering living quarters or occupied spaces in homes, churches, schools, and other similar areas, where they might come in contact with people and pets.

If you are bitten by any animal seek care promptly. Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water. Go to your family doctor or hospital for medical attention immediately.

Contact Pasco County Animal Services at (727) 834-3216, (813) 929-1212, or (352) 521-5194 to report animal bites or scratches and for information on stray dogs and cats.

Contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 1-863-648-3203 for concerns about wild animals.