Stay Rabies-Free This Spring by Avoiding Wild Animals

Published on May 07, 2025

With spring's arrival in Denver, many people are spending more time outside and may encounter wildlife. While the animals, and their babies, you see may be cute, they can be dangerous and even carry diseases like rabies. The Denver Department of Public Health & Environment (DDPHE) and Denver Animal Protection (DAP) officers encourage Denver residents to avoid the temptation to pet or handle these critters for both human and animal safety.

Rabies is a virus spread to people from the saliva of infected animals. The virus is usually transmitted through a bite, and with wild animals accounting for more than 90% of reported rabies cases in the U.S., if not treated before symptoms appear, it's deadly. Rabies has the highest mortality rate-99.9%-of any disease on earth.

As a result of the danger presented by rabies, DDPHE takes interactions between humans and wildlife extremely seriously. Any skunk, raccoon, bat, coyote, or fox handled by a person or in contact with a pet must be euthanized and tested for rabies. Those who have handled the animals must go to their doctor and may receive post-exposure rabies vaccinations. Pets that were in contact with the animals must be quarantined for up to 45 days. Even a seemingly healthy animal could be carrying rabies and not exhibit any symptoms. If you encounter these animals, do not approach or try to touch them and keep a safe distance. Touching wild animals presents a serious rabies risk.

"This year Denver Animal Protection has already responded to calls of people bitten by wild animals," said Animal Protection Lt. Josh Rolfe. "Rabies is more than just an animal issue-it's a serious public health threat that can be deadly to both people and pets. To avoid exposure to rabies, keep pets up to date with required rabies vaccination and never touch a wild animal."

During the spring, people might want to pick up baby animals because they think they have been abandoned and need help. It's important to know young wildlife are usually not orphaned. Many species leave their young in a safe place to look for food. It is not uncommon for baby animals to be left alone for hours. Mom is usually not far away and will come back to take care of her young.

Birds often leave the nest before they can fly, hopping around on the ground for days. These fledglings will feed on the ground until they are able to fly. Generally, if Good Samaritans intervene, they do more harm than good.

If you see sick or injured wildlife, leave the animal alone and contact DAP at 720-913-2080 or the Denver Police non-emergency number of 720-913-2000. DAP works closely with the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment and wildlife rehab centers in the state. Our officers can assess if an animal needs to be humanely euthanized or transported to a rehab center for care. Additionally, be sure your pet's vaccinations are up to date to protect them in the event of exposure to rabies. Learn more about pet vaccinations on the DAP webpage.

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