CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Fla. (Dec. 10, 2025) – Charlotte County Animal Control, in coordination with the Florida Department of Health in Charlotte County, has issued a 30-day rabies alert following confirmation that a bat in the McKee Street/Bennett Drive area of Port Charlotte tested positive for rabies.
Alert Area Boundaries
- East: Includes portions of S. McCall Road, Oarsman Street, Hideaway Place, and all areas extending eastward for one-mile from the intersection of Mckee Street and Bennett Drive.
- West: Extends to Legend Street, Coliseum Boulevard, Wilmington Boulevard including all locations within a one-mile distance west of the intersection at Mckee Street and Bennett Drive.
- North: Includes Romford Avenue, Foresman Boulevard, Gillot Boulevard and David Boulevard, covering all areas within a one-mile distance north of the intersection at Mckee Street and Bennett Drive.
- South: Includes portions of Isabell Avenue, Martha Avenue, Overton Avenue and Sailors Way, covering all areas within a one-mile distance south of the intersection at Mckee Street and Bennett Drive.
This alert serves as a reminder that rabies is present in the wild animal population and poses a risk to unvaccinated domestic animals. While this alert is specific to the identified area, rabies can occur anywhere in Charlotte County, and caution is advised countywide.
Recommendations for Residents and Visitors
- Ensure all domestic pets are vaccinated against rabies and vaccinations remain current.
- Avoid contact with wildlife, particularly raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats, and coyotes.
- Do not feed or attract wild animals by leaving pet food outdoors or unsecured trash.
- Never adopt, handle, or attempt to rescue wild animals, even if they appear friendly or injured.
- Secure homes and buildings to prevent bats from entering.
- Report animal bites or scratches immediately to Charlotte County Animal Control at 941-833-5690 or the Florida Department of Health in Charlotte County at 941-624-7200.
- If your pet is bitten or exposed to a wild animal, seek veterinary care immediately and contact Animal Control at 941-833-5690.
- Report stray or suspicious animals to Animal Control for removal.
Rabies is a fatal but preventable disease. Prompt action, vigilance, and responsible pet ownership are key to protecting families, pets, and the community.
For more information, visit the Florida Department of Health in Charlotte County website or contact Charlotte County Animal Control at 941-833-5690.
For information, contact Brian Jones at Brian.Jones@CharlotteCountyFL.gov.
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