What Makes Raccoons Dangerous in Wisconsin?
Raccoons are common in many parts of the United States, including the Milwaukee Metro area and surrounding counties such as Milwaukee, Waukesha, Washington, and Ozaukee. Raccoons might look adorable with their masked faces and curious nature, but don’t let their cuteness fool you. They are wild animals and should not be approached. Raccoons can be quite vicious if they feel threatened, and their bites can pose significant dangers to humans. If you spot a raccoon, it’s best to keep your distance and avoid any interaction. However, if you do end up getting bitten, knowing what steps to take immediately after being bitten is crucial for your health and safety at Advanced Wildlife Control. We’ll guide you through the essential steps.
Understanding the Risks
Are Raccoons Dangerous?
Raccoons are generally not aggressive towards humans unless they feel threatened or are cornered. However, they can become dangerous if they are rabid or protecting their young. So, be extra careful during the raccoon mating season! It is important to exercise caution and avoid approaching or attempting to handle raccoons.
Do Raccoons Have Rabies?
Raccoons are one of the primary carriers of rabies in North America. Rabies is a viral disease that affects the nervous system and can be fatal if not treated before symptoms appear. If you are bitten by a raccoon, it is essential to assume that the animal could be rabid and seek immediate medical treatment. Post-bite medical treatment may include:
- Rabies Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) – If a raccoon bite occurs, your doctor will likely recommend a series of rabies vaccinations known as Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP). This treatment is highly effective at preventing rabies if administered promptly after exposure.
- Tetanus Shot – Your healthcare provider may also recommend a tetanus shot, especially if you have not had one in the last ten years. Tetanus is a bacterial infection that can be transmitted through animal bites and can cause severe muscle spasms and stiffness.
- Antibiotics – To prevent or treat any potential bacterial infections from the bite, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics. It is important to take the full course of antibiotics as prescribed to ensure the infection is completely eradicated.
Watch for Symptoms
Even if you receive treatment for a raccoon bite, it is important to remain vigilant for symptoms of rabies or other infections. Symptoms to watch for include:
- Increased redness, swelling, or pus around the wound
- Fever or chills
- Severe pain or discomfort
- Neurological symptoms such as confusion or difficulty swallowing
If any of these symptoms occur, seek medical attention immediately.
Preventing Future Encounters With Raccoons
Preventing raccoon encounters starts with making your property less attractive to them. Here are some tips on how to get rid of raccoons and prevent future issues:
- Secure Garbage Bins – Use raccoon-proof garbage bins with tightly fitting lids to prevent raccoons from accessing food scraps.
- Eliminate Food Sources – Do not leave pet food or birdseed outside overnight. These can attract raccoons looking for an easy meal.
- Seal Entry Points – Inspect your home for potential entry points and seal any gaps or holes that raccoons could use to gain access.
- Use Deterrents – Consider using motion-activated lights or sprinklers to scare raccoons away from your property.
- Hire Professionals – If you have a persistent raccoon problem, consider hiring a professional wildlife control service to humanely remove the animals and prevent future issues.
Local Wildlife Control in Wisconsin
Raccoons are omnivores, meaning they eat both plant and animal matter. Their diet typically includes fruits, vegetables, insects, small animals, and human food waste. This diverse diet makes urban areas particularly attractive to raccoons, as they can find ample food sources in garbage bins and gardens. While most raccoons have a distinctive grayish-brown coat, you may see some raccoons with a lighter, blonde coloration. These blonde raccoons are less common but pose the same risks as the grey raccoons. It’s important to be aware of the local wildlife control resources in your area. Advanced Wildlife Control. Provides professional and humane wildlife removal services throughout Wisconsin.
Contact Us Today
If you’re dealing with a raccoon problem, Advanced Wildlife Control is here to help. We offer humane wildlife removal services in Ozaukee County, Milwaukee County, Washington County, and Waukesha County. Raccoons can pose significant risks, especially if they bite or scratch you. Immediate action, such as cleaning the wound and seeking medical attention, is crucial to prevent severe health complications like rabies. By securing your property and educating your family, you can minimize the chances of encountering raccoons. Our team of professionals is dedicated to protecting your home and family from the dangers of common household pests. Contact us today!