Meadow Pointe Pet Exposed To Raccoon With Rabies

The Florida Department of Health in Pasco County has issued a rabies alert after a Wesley Chapel pet was exposed to a raccoon that tested positive for rabies.

All residents and visitors in the Meadow Pointe Wesley Chapel area should be aware that rabies is present in the wild animal population, and domestic animals are at risk if not vaccinated. The public is asked to maintain a heightened awareness that rabies is active.

Residents and visitors are advised to take the following precautions:

1. Keep rabies vaccinations up to date for all pets.

2. Keep your pets under direct supervision so they do not come in contact with wild animals.

3. If your pet is bitten by a wild animal, seek veterinary assistance for the animal immediately.

4. Do not handle, feed or unintentionally attract wild animals with open garbage cans or litter.

5. Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home.

6. Teach children never to handle unfamiliar animals, wild or domestic, even if they appear friendly.