Over the next few days, you may want to keep your eyes open on your pets or any other animals you may have or any stray animals in your area after the City Of Tyler has issued a "rabies" advisory in the community after an animal found at the Caldwell Zoo tested positive for it.

Tyler Animal Services was alerted by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) that a bat in Tyler tested positive for rabies.

Ian Waldie, Getty Images
Ian Waldie, Getty Images
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The report came in on Wednesday April 6th. According to the press release we received from the city, a stray bat was found at the Caldwell Zoo. An unknown individual who alerted Zoo staff to the bat may have been exposed. Any individuals who may have had contact with this bat or are concerned should contact Tyler Animal Services at (903) 535-0045 or DSHS at (903) 533-5243.

An Important Reminder About Rabies & Animals

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It is critical for people to not handle bats, skunks, raccoons or other wild animals. It is important for children to tell their parents of any contact with wild animals or any sick animals. If a person is bitten by an animal, the bite incident must be reported to the Local Rabies Control Authority, the Tyler Animal Services Director, for proper investigation.

So What Should I Do Now To Make Sure My Pets Are Safe?

Group of pets: dog, cat, bird, rabbit
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Tyler Animal Services advises all pet owners to confirm their dogs and cats are currently vaccinated for rabies. Preventative immunization for rabies is the only effective defense against the fatal disease. City of Tyler Ordinance and Smith County Ordinance requires regular rabies shots for all dogs and cats. It is a Class C misdemeanor if someone fails to vaccinate their pet(s) by four months of age. Tyler Animal Services is hosting its annual Rabies and Microchip Clinic on Thursday, April 21. Anyone with questions on rabies control may contact Tyler Animal Services at (903) 535-0045.

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