Press Release
Rabies Safety
April 10, 2026
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Pinellas County, Fla. – The Florida Department of Health in Pinellas County (DOH-Pinellas) urges residents to avoid contact with wild and stray animals to prevent rabies exposure.
Remember these tips to protect yourself, family members and pets:
- Immunize your pets and livestock based on your veterinarian’s recommended schedule
- Keep pets under direct supervision and on a leash, and keep livestock secured on your property. If an animal bites your livestock, seek veterinary assistance immediately and contact Pinellas County Animal Services at 727-582-2600.
- Avoid contact with wild or stray animals. Do not handle, feed, or unintentionally attack them with outdoor pet food, open garbage cans, or other sources of food. If you have been bitten or scratched by a wild or domestic animal, seek medical attention immediately, and report the injury to the DOH-Pinellas by calling 727-824-6932.
- Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home; instead contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
- Call your local animal control agency to remove any stray animals from your neighborhood. Contact Pinellas Couty Animal Services at 727-582-2600.
- Prevent wildlife, including bats, from entering living quarters or occupied spaces in homes, schools, and other similar areas where they might come in contact with people and pets.
For more information on rabies, please visit FloridaHealth.gov/Rabies or contact DOH-Pinellas
at 727-824-6932.