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GO Health has tips for rabies prevention for people and pets

Posted 15 April 2026 at 12:50 pm

Press Release, Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments

As the weather gets warmer, more people spend time outside. During this time, it’s common to see wild animals and baby animals in yards, parks and wooded areas.

The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) remind everyone to be careful around wild animals, stray pets, and even young animals. Rabies is a serious disease that can spread to both animals and people, but it can be prevented.

“Rabies usually spreads through bites from infected animals like raccoons, skunks, bats, and foxes,” said Darren Brodie, Environmental Health Director for GO Health. “Even though baby animals may look harmless, they can still carry rabies. Do not touch or feed wild or stray animals. If an animal looks sick or injured, call animal control for help.”

Rabies can be deadly if it is not treated quickly. If you are bitten, wash the area right away with soap and water and get medical care as soon as possible. All animal bites should be reported to the Genesee or Orleans County Health Departments.

To help prevent rabies, follow these tips:

  • Make sure your pets have their rabies shots and are up to date.
  • Stay away from wild animals, stray pets, and baby animals, even if they seem friendly or hurt. Report animals that act strange, such as being aggressive, confused, or overly friendly.
  • Keep your pets on a leash to stop them from coming into contact with wild or stray animals. If your pet is bitten, contact your veterinarian right away and report it to the health department.
  • Take steps to prevent bats from coming indoors. If you find a bat inside, safely capture it and contact the health department. Do not let it go. For help, watch the GO Health Minute on how to safely catch a bat: GO Health Minute.

Residents are encouraged to take advantage of our upcoming drive-thru rabies vaccination clinics for dogs, cats, and ferrets in Genesee and Orleans counties, offered at no charge. Remember to bring proof of previous vaccination.

Orleans County Rabies Clinics at the Orleans County Fairgrounds (12690 State Route 31, Albion, NY 14411)

  • Saturday, April 25, from 9 to 11:30 a.m.
  • Wednesday, June 17, from 3:30 to 6 p.m.
  • Wednesday, August 19, from 3:30 to 6 p.m.
  • Wednesday, October 7, from 3:30 to 6 p.m.

Genesee County Rabies Clinics at the Genesee County Fairgrounds (5056 East Main Street, Batavia, NY 14020)

  • Thursday, May 14, from 3:30 to 6 p.m.
  • Thursday, August 13, from 3:30 to 6 p.m.
  • Thursday, October 8, from 3:30 to 6 p.m.

For more information on GO Health’s programs and services, visit GOHealthNY.org.