In Texas, the most commonly infected animals are skunks, bats, coyotes, and foxes.

DO NOT TOUCH THESE ANIMALS!

TWRC will not knowingly accept any rabies-vector animal that has bitten or scratched a member of the public into the Center. If the animal in question has bitten or scratched anyone it must be sent immediately for rabies testing. No other option is available. It is state law.

If you encounter a high-risk animal, and depending upon the area where you live, call one of the phone numbers below immediately. These offices will collect all the pertinent information over the phone, give details of how to deal with the animal in question, assign a case bite number, and arrange for pick-up of the animal by an officer. If you cannot reach one of these offices, please call the Center for assistance (713-468-8972).

AREA

OFFICE(S) TO CONTACT

PHONE NUMBER

City of Houston
(call both offices)

Bureau of Animal Regulation and Care (BARC)

www.houstontx.gov/health/BARC

713-238-9600

After hours dial 911 and the Houston Police Department will dispatch the call to the BARC emergency service line

Texas State Department of Health Services

713-767-3300

After hours leave a message

Harris County

281-999-3191

Surrounding cities

Local Animal Control Office

Consult the Information Directory for phone numbers
LRCA

Harris County Public Health & Environmental Services Veterinary Public Health http://www.countypets.com/

A list of LRCAs in the area can be found at http://www.hcphes.org/vph/Rabies/animal%20bites.htm