What do I do if my dog or cat has bitten someone?

If you have been bitten by a dog please seek medical attention. Contact the animal control office, police, or sheriff's department, they will fill out an official observation order. The police or sheriff will contact the owner and issue the observation order. Animal Control will receive a copy and contact the owner to verify the terms of the order. If your dog is vaccinated you can keep it in the home for the 10 days, but it MUST be confined. It should not be outside by itself and must be on a leash, it also must be confined from guests in your home. On the 10th day the dog will need to be taken to the vet's office to be checked, bring the observation order with you, as it will need to be signed by the doctor and sent to the Henry County Animal Control. You CANNOT give your dog away or put it to sleep during this 10 day period, you will be held responsible regardless! No rabies vaccination should be given until the 10 day confinement is over.

A stray cat should be brought to a veterinarian for observation, a family cat can stay in the home, but must be taken to the veterinarians office on the 10th day.

If you do not follow the above guidelines you will be held responsible. Please contact the Henry County Animal Control or your veterinarian if you have any questions.

Show All Answers

1. At what age and how often does my dog need to be vaccinated against rabies?
2. What are the fees and how often does my dog need to be registered?
3. How can I get a rabies tag for my dog?
4. Does my dog have to wear its Rabies tag?
5. Who do I notify if my dog has died or is missing?
6. Who do I call to report abuse or neglect?
7. Who do I call to report a loose dog or cat to be picked up?
8. Who do I call to adopt a pet?
9. What can I do about stray cats in my neighborhood?
10. How can I get rid of wild animals in my yard that look sick or are destroying my property?
11. What do I do if my dog or cat has bitten someone?