Animal Bite & Rabies

The rabies control program was established to prevent humans from contracting rabies. This is accomplished through routine reporting of animal bites and scratches by hospitals, clinics, and law enforcement agencies; investigation of bite incidents; consistent use of quarantine, and laboratory testing of animals when appropriate. 

Rabies post exposure prophylaxis is recommended when tests indicate the biting animal is positive for rabies, or when the bite is from a stray animal that is unsuccessfully able to be located for quarantine. Because rabies is nearly always fatal, if we cannot locate and determine the rabies status of the stray animal, we also recommend prophylaxis for the bite victim. 

Rabies Vaccination 

Wisconsin State Law requires that all Dogs be vaccinated for Rabies by the age of 5 months. Rabies vaccinations are good for 1 year or 3 years depending on the type of vaccine used and the age of the animal when the vaccination was given. Owners should check with their veterinarian and make sure their pets are up to date on rabies vaccinations at all times. Though no vaccination provides 100% protection, it does provide one of the most effective ways to protect your animal from the rabies virus. 

Rabies Quarantine 

According to State Statute, domestic animals not showing signs of rabies are required to be quarantined for a 10-day period. Quarantine means always confined or on a leash and limited exposure to others during the quarantine.  

The animal must be examined three times by a licensed veterinarian for rabies symptoms. The initial exam is required within 24 hours of the bite occurring. The second exam should be done anytime (recommend midway through quarantine) during the other 8 days and the final exam must be done on day 10. Animal owners are responsible for quarantine and veterinarian expenses under the statute. 

• Vaccinated animals: are allowed a home quarantine for the 10 days with proof of up-to-date vaccine. Animal is required to remain confined, on a leash and limited exposure to other during that 10-day quarantine.  

• Unvaccinated animals: are required to be taken to an approved quarantine facility for quarantine. The quarantine facility will coordinate veterinary visits and rabies vaccination before being returned to the owner. 

Whistling Winds Kennel is an approved quarantine facility: 608-440-1829

Check out Wisconsin Department of Health Services for more information on Rabies: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/rabies/index.htm