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Animal Bite Prevention

Learn the steps you can take to prevent animal bites. 

How to Prevent Illnesses from Animal Bites

  • Avoid contact with unknown or wild animals, especially those with unusual behaviors or who appear sick. 

  • Ask owners before petting their animals. Do not pet or feed unknown or wild animals, including animals in parks. 

  • Stay still and be calm when approached by an unknown animal. 

  • Avoid direct eye contact with unknown animals. 

  • Get your pets vaccinated against rabies. 

  • Ensure you are up to date on your tetanus shot and other routine vaccinations. Adults require a tetanus-containing vaccine (Td or Tdap) at least every 10 years.

What to do if bitten by an animal

  1. If the animal has an owner, ask for their name and contact information. 
  2. Wash all wounds, even small ones, with soap and water. Treat every cut, scrape, or puncture. 
  3. Get medical care right away if the animal is unknown, acting strangely, or wild. You may need treatment to prevent rabies or other illnesses, that can be deadly if left untreated. 
  4. Go to a healthcare provider if the area becomes red, swollen, or painful. If you're prescribed antibiotics or vaccines, finish the full series to keep you healthy. 
  5. After a bite, contact Boston Animal Care and Control at (617)-635-5348.
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