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Dec,06 2024

Do Possums Have Rabies?

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 As a homeowner, the last thing you want is possum-related shenanigans in your backyard. If you suspect your furry friend has rabies, it is advisable to act quickly before the situation worsens. Consult a professional pest control service or veterinarian to determine the best course of action. While rabies might not raise concerns initially, delaying immediate attention can cause safety and health hazards. At Wheeler’s Pest Control, we understand possums are fascinating creatures that are often shy and harmless to humans. However, a possum with rabies can become savage and a potential threat to your well-being.

Can Possums Carry Rabies?

Like any mammal, possums can contract rabies. However, the likelihood is extremely low. Studies show that their low body temperature makes them less suitable hosts for the rabies virus compared to other animals like raccoons, bats, and skunks. While the risk is low, if you encounter a rabid possum, call a pest removal expert for professional help.

Recognizing Signs of Rabies in Possums

As stated, rabies is rare in possums. However, it’s essential to recognize potential signs if you suspect infection. A rabid possum may show aggression, excessive drooling, or erratic movements. This is in contrast to a healthy possum, which is timid and shy. Once you detect these warning signs, call a professional pest removal company quickly, as rabies is a serious disease that can affect humans and pets if left unchecked.

Misunderstood Behaviors

Many behaviors mistaken for rabies symptoms in possums are actually part of their natural defense mechanisms. These include hissing, baring teeth, or pretending to be dead. If you encounter a possum showing these signs, don’t rush to assume it is rabies. Consult a reputable pest control expert in Wildomar, CA to determine if it is an evolutionary adaptation or sickness.

What to Do If You Suspect Rabies

If you suspect a possum has rabies, avoid contact with the animal even if it is a pet. It is advisable to keep pets and children away from the possum for safety. Consult a professional pest control company or local wildlife expert for help in removing the rabid possum, minimizing human and pet exposure. Even if you prefer a more hands-on approach, ensure you have a veterinarian or healthcare provider on hand to discuss precautionary measures, including rabies post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP).

The Role of Possums in Ecosystems

Despite concerns about rabies, possums are valuable in the ecosystems. They help control pests such as ticks, snails, and insects, which can benefit homeowners by reducing garden infestations. Understanding their ecological importance can help eliminate fears and promote coexistence, provided they do not pose a direct threat to human or pet safety.

Preventing Possum Intrusions

Preventing unwanted encounters with possums is often the best strategy. Secure trash bins, eliminate food sources, and seal entry points to prevent possums from nesting in attics, garages, or other areas around your property. Motion-activated lights or sprinklers can also deter nocturnal visitors without harming them.
While the fear of rabies in possums is understandable, the risk is exceedingly low. By recognizing the distinction between natural possum behaviors and signs of illness, you can avoid unnecessary alarm. Contact us at Wheeler’s Pest Control and schedule a consultation to ensure safety for your loved ones and wildlife. As a reputable pest control service, we can help you understand the habits of possums so that you can appreciate their fascinating nature and contribution to the environment.

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Teresa Hutchinson

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Joe English

Company is on top of their game David  showed up to get are gophers. came out three days in a row haven’t seen a go for since

Gary M.

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Kristen Forrester

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