Show All Answers

1. I was bitten by a dog or cat, what do I do?

Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water. See your physician immediately for medical treatment. Contact the Montgomery County Office of Public Health at 610-278-5117 and speak with a Disease Intervention Specialist, who will start an investigation and provide you with the necessary information.

2. What do I do if a wildlife animal bites or scratches me?

Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water. See your physician immediately for medical treatment. If possible, wildlife that has bitten or scratched you should be tested for rabies. All animal bites to humans should be reported immediately to the Office of Public Health. Please call the Montgomery County Office of Public Health at 610-278-5117 and ask to speak to a Disease Intervention Specialist, who will provide additional information.

3. What do I do if a wildlife animal bites/scratches or attacks my pet?

Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water. See your veterinarian immediately for medical treatment. Contact your local Animal Control Officer, PA Game Commission or Police Department for assistance with potentially rabid wildlife. If you suspect the biting animal has rabies, contact the Department of Agriculture immediately at 610-489-1003 x 118 to speak to an investigator at the Region VII Office who will discuss follow up for your pet and/ or for testing of the animal.

4. I found a bat in my house, what should I do?

Bats are a common carrier for rabies. If possible, try to safely capture the animal without making any direct contact with the animal. Contact the Montgomery County Office of Public Health immediately at 610-278-5117 and speak to a Disease Intervention Specialist, who will start an investigation and provide you with the necessary information, including facilitating Rabies testing and/or post-exposure recommendations.

5. I am a Veterinarian and would like to report a Bite Wound of Known or Unknown Origin?

As of January 1, 2018, the Montgomery County Office of Public Health no longer investigates these reports. If a wound has a suspected rabies risk, please contact the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture at 610-489-1003 x 118 to speak to an investigator at the Region VII Office who will assist you.

6. How do I apply for a dog license?

Dog owners in Montgomery County can purchase dog licenses online or by mail via Montgomery County Treasurer. Pennsylvania State Law mandates all dogs 3 months and older are licensed.