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Important
message from Dr. Sandy
As you may know, a rabid Hoary bat was found in
Griffith Park, Saturday, April 5. I called the Los Angeles Animal Public
Health Department to evaluate the risk to you and your pets, and felt
that you should be aware of the following:
- Rabies in the bat population has been increasing over the past two
years.
- Bats are moving more into urban areas where there is more water,
and hence more mosquitoes to eat.
- The Mexican or Brazilian Free Tail bats are small solitary bats
that can fit through very small openings of only ¼ to ½ inch.
- These bats are entering homes. One was found even in a ninth-story
apartment. Frequently, they are found attached to a shower head.
- If you find a bat in your home DO NOT touch it. Remove
all pets from the area, close the door, and call your local Animal
Control agency. They will capture the bat and test it for Rabies.
- Incorporated areas of Los Angeles County require by law Rabies
vaccines for all dogs. Unincorporated areas require Rabies vaccines
for dogs and cats.
- Rabies exemptions no longer will be granted for any reason.
- Any non-vaccinated dogs or cats exposed to a rabid bat or animal
will require a 6 month quarantine, or euthanasia, to prevent
possible Rabies exposure to your family.
Because these bats are entering homes, Rabies vaccines are
strongly recommended now by the Public Health Department for
indoor-only cats as well!
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