Recent news articles show that across the country, bats are testing positive for rabies.
In some of those cities, the bats have managed to pass their infections along to humans and their pets, too. Bats are, in fact, the most common source of rabies transmission to both humans and pets.
None of these places are Houston, Texas, of course, but the truth is we’ve had rabid bats in our fair city before. What can you do to keep you and your family safe?
Know Your Bat Seasons
Bats are most active between May and October. During these months, you should be especially vigilant about checking your home for bat damage. You should also be listening and watching for signs that a bat infestation has entered your home. If you hear or see signs of a bat infestation, respond immediately by scheduling an inspection.
Take Your Pets to the Vet
When is the last time you got your pets vaccinated? It’s not always easy to stick to a regular vaccination schedule, but it’s especially important during bat season.
Cats should be vaccinated between three and four months of age, and should receive boosters every one to three years. Dogs get their shots on the same schedule.
Never Touch a Bat
You should do everything in your power to avoid touching live or dead bats with any part of your body. If you must handle a dead bat, use disposable gloves, put it in a plastic baggie, and submit it for testing. Then, call our wildlife control company, because if there’s one dead bat in your kitchen then chances are there are loads of live ones up in your attic.
If you find an injured or dead bat in your home, Texas DSHS recommends removing children and pets from the room, closing windows and doors, turning on the lights, and then capturing the bat with a coffee can and a piece of cardboard. You should then contact animal control so the bat may be tested. Try not to strike the bat, as physical trauma can throw off rabies test results.
Address Bat Problems Fast
It can be tempting to ignore a bat problem. Nobody loves spending money, and most of our new customers come to us with fears about the expense of wildlife removal. In reality, residential bat removal services are pretty affordable here in Houston, and they’re always more affordable than medical bills and home repair bills. Bats can cause a great deal of damage.
If you suspect you have a bat problem, don’t delay. Contact Elite Wildlife Services to schedule your free inspection today.
