Bites/Scratches

Eleven Most Asked Questions About Animal Bites and Scratches

1. Why do I have to report that my own dog or cat bit me?
   
   To protect not only your own health,but other persons as well by assuring that your pet remains healthy for ten days after the incident.
   
   
2. Will I get my friends in trouble if I report that their pet bit/scratched me?
   
   No. You will assure the safety of yourself and others that may come in contact with the pet by knowing that it was quarantined for 10 days and properly vaccinated.
   
   
3. Why is my pet under quarantine even if it is currently vaccinated?
   
   By observing the animal for 10 days, we are assured that the pet could not have been spreading the rabies virus in its saliva at the time of the bite or scratch.
   
   
4. Why should significant scratches also be reported?
   
   Many animals lick their feet, especially cats; and dogs frequently lay with their mouths in contact with their feet, subsequently putting potentially infected saliva in direct contact with their toenails.
   
   
5. Are you going to take my dog or cat away from me?
   
   Not necessarily. In most cases we will allow you to quarantine your pet at home if you have a secure area for your dog or if you are willing to keep your cat in the house for 10 days. If you cannot provide a secure quarantine area we may require that you board your pet at your veterinarians or at the animal shelter at your own expense. You may reclaim your pet at the end of the 10 day period.
   
   
6. If it was an "accident" why should I report it?
   
   Most bites/scratches ARE accidental, such as stepping on your cat's tail or playing too rough with your dog. Other bites are generally "provoked". In the dog's point of view you teased, scared, threatened, surprised, interrupted or in some other way caused a fear response. An animal bite is not a statement of the dog's viciousness; it usually indicates that the dog has not been properly socialized or trained. The majority of animals that bite are sexually intact. Spay or neuter your pets!
   
   
7. Why should my pet be vaccinated if it never goes out?
   
   Even so-called "house dogs" go out to use the bathroom and house cats can escape. In the length of time it takes for the dog to potty, it could come in contact with an infected bat or the cat could surprise a raccoon or other wild animal.
   
   
8. How can I know if my dog/cat may have rabies?
   
   Only a laboratory test of the animal's brain tissue can definitely diagnose rabies virus. Rabies is a viral disease affecting the central nervous system. Early signs are behavioral and may include: hiding, refusal to interact with family members, listlessness, and generally "not feeling well". Other symptoms may be: incoordination, inability to walk or stand, excessive salivation due to throat muscle paralysis, increasingly aggressive behavior, and convulsions.
   
   
9. How much is a rabies vaccination and where can I get one for my pet?
   
   In this area, vaccination fees range from $5.00 to $15.00 and only a licensed veterinarian can give the vaccination.
   
   
10. If I do not get a rabies vaccination for my pet, what can happen?
    
    Failure to provide proof of rabies vaccination is a criminal offense, punishable under NCGS 130A-185. Court costs are $65.00 plus an unlimited fine at the discretion of the judge; other local penalties may also apply.
    
    
11. What should I do if I am bitten/scratched and why?
    
    Wash the wound with soap and water for 15 minutes. Yes, that is a long time, but it has been proven to be effective in removing the rabies virus. Notify your family physician and local Health Department providing information as to the owner of the animal, description of the animal and its location. If you don't, you could get rabies!