As summer arrives in Green Bay, people and wildlife alike become more active. Longer days and warmer weather mean more time spent outdoors, but they also bring a spike in wildlife encounters—some of which can pose serious health risks. One of the most concerning dangers during the summer months is exposure to rabies.
Rabies is a viral disease that affects the nervous system and is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. It’s typically spread through the bite or saliva of an infected animal, and while cases in humans are rare in the U.S., the threat is real—especially during summer when people and pets are more likely to come in contact with wildlife.
Why Summer Increases Rabies Risks
There are several reasons rabies risk peaks during the warmer months:
-
Increased Wildlife Activity: Animals such as raccoons, bats, foxes, and skunks are more active during the summer as they search for food, mates, and shelter. This increases the chance of human and pet encounters.
-
Outdoor Pet Exposure: Dogs and cats spend more time outside in the summer, potentially encountering infected animals. Unvaccinated pets are especially vulnerable.
-
More Human-Wildlife Interaction: People are more likely to explore parks, trails, and wooded areas—habitats that also attract wild animals. Curious children and pets may unknowingly approach sick or aggressive wildlife.
Recognizing Rabid Animals
Not all animals with rabies will foam at the mouth or act violently. Some may simply behave strangely. Signs of a potentially rabid animal include:
-
Appearing unusually aggressive or tame
-
Staggering or seeming disoriented
-
Coming out during the daytime (for nocturnal animals like raccoons or bats)
-
Making strange vocalizations or acting confused
If you notice a wild animal exhibiting any of these behaviors on your property, keep your distance and contact a wildlife professional immediately.
What to Do If You’re Exposed
If you or your pet is bitten or scratched by a wild animal—or even comes into contact with one’s saliva—you should:
Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water.
Seek immediate medical attention.
Report the incident to your local health department.
Contact your veterinarian if your pet is involved.
Time is critical with potential rabies exposure. The disease can be prevented with prompt medical care, including post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for humans or a booster shot for vaccinated pets.
How Critter Control of Green Bay Can Help
At Critter Control of Green Bay, we provide humane and professional wildlife removal services to help keep your home safe during the busy summer months. If you suspect that a wild animal on your property may be sick, aggressive, or acting abnormally, our trained technicians are equipped to handle the situation safely and legally.
We also offer exclusion services to prevent wild animals from entering your attic, crawlspace, or garage—common places for bats, raccoons, and skunks to shelter during the summer.
Tips to Reduce Rabies Risk on Your Property
-
Keep pet vaccinations up to date.
-
Avoid feeding or approaching wild animals.
-
Secure garbage cans and remove outdoor food sources.
-
Close off openings in your home’s structure to prevent animal entry.
-
Supervise pets and children when outdoors.
Stay Safe This Summer
Summer in Wisconsin is a beautiful time to enjoy the outdoors—but it’s also a time to stay vigilant. By understanding the risks associated with rabies and taking preventive action, you can protect your family, your pets, and your peace of mind.
If you’re dealing with nuisance wildlife or concerned about a possible rabies threat, don’t wait. Contact Critter Control of Green Bay today for fast, humane, and professional assistance.