Bites & Rabies

Bites

All animal bites, whether from a household pet or a wild animal, should be reported immediately by calling (972) 223-6111.

The Animal Service Department is charged with recording all incidents of animal bites in the city. The animal service officer can assist you in locating the animal that caused the bite. It is important to know which animal caused the bite because it must be quarantined for observation. 


Rabies

Rabies is a disease caused by a virus carried by infected animals. Wild animals such as skunks, bats, raccoons, foxes, and coyotes are the most common carriers of rabies. Wild animals may infect a household pet with rabies, therefore care should be taken to avoid situations where your pet and a wild animal may meet.

All dogs and cats in the city are required by state law to be vaccinated against rabies.

Adults should caution children to use care when approaching unfamiliar dogs and cats and avoid contact with wild animals. The Animal Service Department will provide non-emergency advice on animal bites and rabies.  For further information, please contact an officer by calling regional dispatch at (972) 223-6111.

Animal Service Officer Cab