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Animal Bites and Bite Reporting

Animal Bite

Even small bites can lead to big problems.

Bites from any animal are serious, and wild animals such as bats, foxes, raccoons and skunks can transmit rabies – a potentially fatal viral disease spread through bites or scratches from infected animals.

It's important you know the risks and for Allen County residents including doctors and veterinarians to promptly report bites and exposures to animals that might be carrying disease.

Bite Reporting

It is critical providers report when a patient has been bitten or scratched by an animal, domestic or wild, to Fort Wayne Animal Care & Control as required by law. Timely reporting increases the likelihood Animal Control officers can secure the animal for quarantine or testing purposes before it escapes or causes additional harm.

Animal Care & Control can be reached at 260.427.1244 (choose Option 1) Monday through Friday. After-hours callers will receive automated information about how to report bites.

What to do if You've Been Bitten

Wash the wound with soap and water, and seek medical attention. Call Fort Wayne Animal Care & Control. You can ask your health care provider or emergency room staff to fax a completed Indiana Animal Bites Report to 260.427.5514.

Animal-borne (Zoonotic) Diseases

Protect Yourself

  • DO NOT keep wild animals as pets
  • Avoid animals you don't know – including loose dogs or feral cats – or those that are wild, sleeping, injured, eating or caring for young
  • Don't feed or attempt to touch wild animals
  • Eliminate entry points around your home, garage, storage sheds or other structures
  • Keep pet food away from wild animals and secure garbage bin lids
  • Make sure pets are up-to-date on rabies shots