What happens if I am bitten by a dog or my dog bites someone?
The State of California is a declared rabies area. Any time an animal that is susceptible to rabies, such as a dog or cat, bites or scratches someone it needs to quarantined. This can typically be done at home if the dog has a current rabies vaccination (given at least 30 days before the bite). In the case of home quarantine the animal must be kept within 4 solid walls such as a house, garage, or shed. An Animal Control Officer will come to the home to approve where the animal is being kept and have the owner sign a quarantine contract. Dogs that do not have a current rabies vaccination must go to the shelter or a veterinarian’s office for quarantine.


Be sure to seek medical aid if bitten by an animal. Rinse wounds as quickly as possible even if you only have access to water. If there is no animal to quarantine then rabies post exposure treatment will be recommended. Rabies is a fatal disease.

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1. Where is the shelter located?
2. What is the difference between Animal Control and the Humane Society?
3. How do I license my dog?
4. Are there low cost vaccination clinics?
5. What happens if I am bitten by a dog or my dog bites someone?
6. What happens if my dog or cat is exposed to wildlife?
7. What if I have a complaint about an animal?
8. What if I see a neglected animal?
9. What about barking dogs?
10. What do I do about feral cats?
11. What do I do about wildlife problems?
12. What do I do if my pet is lost?
13. How do I adopt a pet?
14. What if I have to give up a pet?
15. What do I do about a dead animal?