Keep people and pets away from wild animals. Never leave pet food in your yard because it will attract wild animals. Do not pick up, touch, or feed wild or unfamiliar animals, especially sick or wounded ones. If you have been bitten or scratched, or had contact with the animal, wash the wound or area well with soap and water, and report it immediately to animal control or health officials.

Do not “rescue” seemingly abandoned young wild animals. Usually, the mother will return. If the mother is dead or has not returned in many hours, call the Arizona Game and Fish Department.

Vaccinate all dogs and cats against rabies. Pets should be kept in a fenced yard.

Take precautions when camping, hunting or fishing. Avoid sleeping on the open ground without the protection of a closed tent or camper. Keep pets on a leash and do not allow them to wander. Wear impermeable gloves when skinning carcasses.

Do not disturb roosting bats. If you find a bat on the ground, don’t touch it. Report the bat and its location to your local animal control officer or health department. Place a box over the bat to contain it. Be careful not to damage the bat in any way since it must be intact for rabies testing.

Teach children not to handle or touch sick or injured animals including bats.