02/06/2026
Please make sure your pets are up to date on their vaccines! Rabies infection is a “one way street” and leads to a horrible death, in people and animals.
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RABIES ALERT: The Florida Department of Health in Pasco County (DOH-Pasco) has issued a rabies alert for a portion of Pasco County following a confirmed case of rabies in a raccoon killed in the Zephyrhills area.
According to health officials, the rabid raccoon was found off Alston Avenue on January 30, 2026. In response, DOH-Pasco is actively monitoring rabies activity among wild animals in the surrounding area and is urging residents and visitors to remain alert. Officials stress that rabies is currently present in the wild animal population within the affected zone.
The rabies alert will remain in effect for 60 days and applies to the area bounded by South Avenue to the north, Tucker Road to the south, Zephyrhills Airport to the east, and Gall Boulevard to the west.
Health officials remind the public that rabies is a serious but preventable disease. People and domestic animals should always avoid physical contact with wild animals, including raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats, and coyotes, which carry a higher risk of exposure. If exposure does occur, prompt and appropriate medical treatment can effectively protect against rabies.
Residents are encouraged to ensure pets and livestock are properly vaccinated according to a veterinarian’s recommended schedule. Pets should be kept under direct supervision and on a leash, and livestock should be secured on their property. If a wild or stray animal bites a pet or livestock, owners should seek immediate veterinary care and contact Pasco County Animal Services at 813-929-1212.
DOH-Pasco also advises avoiding contact with wild or stray animals and not feeding or unintentionally attracting them by leaving pet food outdoors or using open garbage containers. Anyone bitten or scratched by a wild or domestic animal should seek medical attention right away and report the injury to DOH-Pasco by calling 352-521-1450, Option 4.
Residents are reminded never to adopt wild animals or bring them into their homes. Instead, a licensed wildlife rehabilitator should be contacted. Stray animals in neighborhoods should be reported to Pasco County Animal Services at 813-929-1212
