A stray bat was found at the Caldwell Zoo after a stranger who alerted zoo staff to the bat may have been exposed. The bat was not part of any exhibition at the zoo. Anyone who may have had contact with this bat or are concerned should contact Tyler Animal Services at 903-535-0045 or DSHS at 903-533-5243. “It’s critical for humans not to handle bats, skunks, raccoons or other wild animals. It is important that children inform their parents of any contact with wildlife or sick animals. “If a person is bitten by an animal, the bite should be reported to the Local Wrath Control Authority, Tyler’s Animal Services Director, for proper investigation,” Tyler Animal Services said in a statement. Tyler Animal Services advises all pet owners to confirm that their dogs and cats have been vaccinated against rabies. Preventive immunization for rabies is the only effective defense against the deadly disease. A Tyler City Decree and Smith County Decree require regular rabies vaccinations for all dogs and cats. It is a Class C offense if one fails to vaccinate one’s pet (s) by the age of four months. Anyone with questions about rabies control can contact Tyler Animal Services at 903-535-0045. Copyright 2022 KLTV. All rights reserved.
