CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Fla. (Aug. 27, 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 raccoon in the Washington Loop Rd/Trails End Drive area of Punta Gorda tested positive for rabies.
Alert Area Boundaries
- East: Hidden Valley Circle, Ridgeland Court, Trails End Drive, Palm Hammock Court, and all areas extending one mile east of Trails End Drive/Washington Loop Road.
- West: Grayfox Road and surrounding agricultural areas, including all locations within one mile west of Trails End Drive/Washington Loop Road.
- North: Sunset Road, Serene Boulevard, and portions of Washington Loop Road, extending one mile north of Trails End Drive/Washington Loop Road.
- South: Bronco Road, the Shell Creek Park community, and Hathaway Park, covering all areas within one mile south of Trails End Drive/Washington Loop Road.
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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