Bats in Hutto (live, assess, safety)

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Contact:
Harold Thomas, Chief of Police
City of Hutto
(512) 846-2057

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Bat Safety

SinceAugust 14, 2009, the City of Hutto Animal Control Division has picked up four bats in the city limits, all of which have tested positive for rabies. The Texas State Department of Health and the Williamson County Health Department are aware of the positive test results and suspect that the City may have a colony of bats with the rabies virus near our area. In light of the recent increase in numbers of rabid bats, the Animal Control Division feels it is imperative to educate the public regarding rabies and bat safety.

First and foremost, all dogs and cats whether indoor or outdoor pets, and all livestock that commonly come in contact with human handlers, plus any other domesticated animals, must be vaccinated for rabies. Vaccinations are necessary to protect not only our pets but people as well against this disease.

With specific regard to bats, it cannot be stressed enough: DO NOT HANDLE BATS. If you encounter a bat in or near your home, please contact your local Animal Control agency immediately regardless of day or time. If you need Animal Control assistance after hours, please contact your local non-emergency dispatch to have an Animal Control officer sent to your location. If you encounter a bat inside your home, it should not be let out but should be contained to an area until the Animal Control officer arrives to remove it safely. If your pet should encounter a bat, the pet or animal should be isolated with limited contact by only one adult until the Animal Control officer arrives and is able to assess the situation.
Animal Control Contact information:

Animal Control Officer
401 W. Front St.
Hutto, TX 78634
Phone: (512) 759-5985
8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Monday – Friday

Non-Emergency, 24 Hour Ph: (512) 846-2200