Don’t Let Rabies Find You in Amarillo: Expert Tips to Stay Safe

Today, the City of Amarillo shared some information regarding rabies. The alert was to remind everyone of the best way to prevent the spread of rabies. It caught me off guard because I don't remember hearing as much this year about rabies. In previous years we've seen reports of rabies in different areas of the panhandle, but not so much this year. This alert led me to learn a lot about Amarillo.

The Best Way To Prevent Rabies? Don't Get Bit.

The whole "campaign" is centered around the idea of "Avoid The Bite". They point out that the best way to avoid rabies is to not pet any animal that isn't your pet. No matter how cute and cuddly, use some common sense and don't approach animals that you don't know. That includes dogs, cats, skunks, raccoons, and bats.

If you do get bit by an animal that you aren't familiar with, you're told to contact Animal Management & Welfare and Amarillo Public Health.

There Are A Lot Of Cuddly Creatures In Amarillo. Don't Touch Them!

It dawned on me in the middle of reading all of this that I have never seen a raccoon in Amarillo. They're listed in the information, but I don't remember ever seeing one. I did a quick search on Google to see if they existed in Yellow City, and Google told me to quit being stupid. Of course they exist. They hide and are apparently good at their job in Amarillo. I was also referred to several companies that specialize in raccoon removal.

I've a bat once in Amarillo, but never a raccoon. Either way, neither of these animals warrants some tummy tickles when you see them. You should probably avoid them and call Animal Management & Wellness. Also, dogs and cats that you aren't familiar with should probably be avoided too. You'd hate for that stray you brought home to end in disaster.

Be smart. I thought most of this was common sense, but it apparently isn't. Avoid the bite, and avoid disaster.