Wildlife Diseases Pennsylvania Hunters Watch

There's nothing quite like the anticipation of a crisp autumn morning in the Pennsylvania woods, but for many hunters, a growing concern quietly rides along with that excitement: the health of the game we pursue. It's tough to enjoy the hunt when you're worried about diseases impacting deer herds, local turkeys, or even furbearers. This guide is here to shed light on the most prevalent wildlife diseases in Pennsylvania, explain what they mean for you, and equip you with the knowledge to hunt safely and responsibly, protecting both wildlife and yourself.

Understanding Wildlife Diseases: Why Hunters Care

Hunting in Pennsylvania is more than just a pastime; it's a deep connection to the land and the animals that inhabit it. When we talk about wildlife diseases, it's not just some abstract scientific concept. It hits close to home because these diseases can drastically impact the very populations we cherish, the habitats they call home, and even the safety of the meat we bring back to our families. It’s a frustrating reality to face, knowing that unseen threats can undermine the health of a herd you’ve watched for years or a flock you’ve pursued season after season.

The Impact on Herds and Habitats

Think about your favorite hunting spot – maybe it’s a sprawling section of State Game Lands or a quiet woodlot on private property. Diseases can rip through these areas, dramatically altering the dynamics of wildlife populations. We're not just talking about a few sick animals; a significant outbreak can reduce herd numbers, weaken overall health, and make animals more susceptible to other threats. When you see fewer deer or turkeys than usual, or you notice animals acting strangely, it’s a stark reminder that these diseases are real and present dangers. The long-term health of our wildlife resources, something every hunter is invested in, truly hinges on understanding and managing these challenges.

Beyond population numbers, diseases can also influence how animals use their habitat. A sick animal might become more sedentary, move to different areas to find easier food or water, or become more vulnerable to predators, altering the natural flow of the ecosystem. This can have ripple effects, impacting everything from vegetation browsing patterns to the availability of prey for other species. It's a complex web, and hunters often act as the first line of defense in observing these changes.

Personal Health and Food Safety Concerns

Let's be honest, one of the biggest reasons we hunt is for the delicious, organic protein it provides. The thought of a disease compromising the meat we intend to eat is a major source of anxiety for many. No one wants to risk their family's health, and rightfully so. This concern often leads to questions about what to look for, what to avoid, and what precautions are necessary during field dressing and processing. It’s not just about what to do if an animal looks outwardly ill, but also understanding potential risks that aren't immediately visible.

Beyond the dinner plate, direct contact with diseased animals can pose risks. Whether you're field dressing a deer, handling a trapped furbearer, or simply retrieving a harvested bird, understanding proper hygiene and protective measures is crucial. We spend a lot of time in the woods, often in close proximity to wildlife and their environment. Being aware of diseases that can cross over to humans, known as zoonotic diseases, isn't about fear-mongering; it's about being informed and taking sensible precautions to ensure our hunting experiences remain safe and enjoyable for years to come.

Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD): The Big One for Deer and Elk

If you've hunted deer or elk in Pennsylvania recently, you've undoubtedly heard about Chronic Wasting Disease, or CWD. It's the talk of the hunting community, and for good reason. CWD is a fatal neurological disease that affects cervids (deer, elk, moose). It's always fatal, there's no cure, and it's slowly but steadily spreading across the country, including right here in Pennsylvania. This disease presents a unique and incredibly frustrating challenge because it attacks the very foundation of our deer and elk populations.

How CWD Spreads and Its Effects on Animals

CWD is caused by abnormal proteins called prions, not bacteria or viruses. These prions essentially turn an animal's brain into a sponge-like material. The scary part? They can persist in the environment for years, making containment incredibly difficult. Infected animals shed these prions through saliva, urine, and feces, contaminating soil, plants, and even water sources. Healthy animals then pick up these prions, and the cycle continues. It’s an insidious disease that spreads silently.

The progression of CWD in an infected animal is slow, often taking years before symptoms become obvious. In the late stages, affected deer or elk might exhibit severe weight loss (hence "wasting"), drooling, stumbling, a blank stare, and an abnormal lack of fear of humans. You might also notice them having difficulty swallowing, leading to pneumonia. If you observe an animal showing these signs, it's critically important to report it to the Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC) immediately. This information helps the PGC track the disease and understand its spread. While CWD hasn't been shown to transmit to humans, health organizations still advise against consuming meat from CWD-positive animals.

Pennsylvania's DMAs and Carcass Movement Rules

To combat the spread of CWD, Pennsylvania has established Disease Management Areas (DMAs). These are specific geographical regions where CWD has been detected, and special regulations are in place to try and control its spread. If you hunt within a DMA, you'll encounter specific rules regarding carcass movement, deer feeding, and urine-based attractants. It can be confusing and sometimes inconvenient, but these rules are critical to the broader effort to protect our healthy herds.

The most significant rule for hunters in DMAs is related to carcass transport. You generally cannot remove high-risk parts (brain, spinal cord, lymph nodes, etc.) from a DMA. This means you might need to process your deer within the DMA, or take it to a PGC-approved processor or taxidermist within the zone. You can learn more about the specifics of these rules in our guide on Pennsylvania CWD Carcass Rules. These regulations are designed to prevent the accidental transport of prions to new, uninfected areas, which could lead to new outbreaks. It's a real hassle sometimes, especially after a successful hunt, but adherence is crucial for the health of Pennsylvania's wildlife.

Hunter Responsibilities and Testing Procedures

As hunters, we play a vital role in CWD surveillance and management. One of the most direct ways we contribute is through carcass testing. The PGC often sets up drop-off locations or asks hunters to provide samples from deer harvested within DMAs. This allows wildlife biologists to monitor the disease's prevalence and spread, informing their management strategies. Even if you're not in a DMA, reporting any deer that appears sick or exhibits CWD-like symptoms is extremely important. Your observations from the field are invaluable.

If you hunt within a DMA and plan to harvest a deer, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the current testing protocols. The Game Commission will provide details on where and how to submit samples. Many hunters find using a service like GoHunt's mapping tools helpful for identifying DMA boundaries and locating testing stations before they even head into the woods. Taking the time to understand and follow these procedures is a critical part of being a responsible hunter in CWD-affected areas. By doing so, you're helping to safeguard the future of White-Tailed Deer Across Pennsylvania.

Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) and Bluetongue (BT): Seasonal Deer Killers

While CWD is a chronic, slow-moving threat, Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) and Bluetongue (BT) are acute, fast-acting diseases that can cause significant deer mortality, especially in late summer and early fall. These are diseases that often leave hunters scratching their heads, wondering why they suddenly find dead deer around water sources. It's frustrating to see deer you've watched all summer suddenly succumb to these illnesses, often right before archery season opens.

Recognizing EHD and BT Symptoms in Deer

EHD and BT are caused by different viruses but present very similar symptoms in deer, making them hard to distinguish without laboratory testing. The hallmark of both diseases is internal hemorrhaging, which essentially means the deer are bleeding internally. Affected deer might appear weak, disoriented, and lethargic. You might see them drooling excessively, have swelling of the head, neck, tongue, or eyelids, and develop a blue tongue (hence "Bluetongue"). They often have a high fever, driving them to seek water sources.

In many cases, deer die very quickly after showing symptoms, sometimes within 24-36 hours. This means you might find dead deer near streams, ponds, or other water bodies. Unlike CWD, which can make a deer look generally unhealthy over a long period, EHD and BT victims often appear to have been healthy until very recently. If you come across a deer showing these symptoms or find a freshly dead deer near water without obvious injury, it's important to report it to the PGC.

Transmission and Environmental Factors

Both EHD and BT viruses are transmitted by biting midges, tiny insects often referred to as "no-see-ums" or "gnats." These midges thrive in warm, humid conditions and near stagnant water. This is why outbreaks typically occur from late summer through early fall, peaking in August and September. A hard frost kills the midges, which effectively halts the spread of the disease for the season. This seasonal pattern is a key characteristic that sets EHD and BT apart from the year-round threat of CWD.

The severity of EHD and BT outbreaks can vary year to year, largely depending on environmental factors like rainfall and temperature, which influence midge populations. Drought conditions, for example, can concentrate deer around fewer water sources, increasing contact and transmission rates. While deer can develop some immunity if they survive an infection, these diseases can still cause significant localized deer die-offs, especially in areas with high deer densities or during particularly favorable midge conditions.

What to Do if You Find Affected Deer

Finding a dead or severely sick deer can be disheartening. If you encounter a deer exhibiting signs of EHD/BT, or find a carcass that appears to be a victim of these diseases, the best course of action is to contact the Pennsylvania Game Commission. They are tracking outbreaks and need your observations. Do not approach or handle sick animals directly. While EHD and BT are not known to infect humans, it's always wise to exercise caution.

Generally, consuming meat from a deer that has been obviously sick with EHD or BT is not recommended. If you harvest a deer that appears outwardly healthy but is in an area known to have EHD/BT, careful field dressing and inspection of the internal organs for any hemorrhaging or abnormalities are advised. When you're out Scouting Pennsylvania Public Land Before Season, keep an eye out for any unusual deer activity or carcasses, especially near water. Your reports help wildlife managers understand the scope of outbreaks and protect our deer populations.

Avian Influenza: A Threat to Waterfowl and Upland Birds

Avian influenza, or bird flu, is a disease that makes headlines periodically, often causing concern for poultry farmers, but it's also a significant threat to wild bird populations, including the waterfowl and upland birds that Pennsylvania hunters pursue. It’s particularly unsettling for those who love to Duck Hunting Pennsylvania Rivers or go after Grouse Hunting Pennsylvania Cover, knowing this invisible threat could be impacting their quarry.

Signs of AI in Wild Birds

Avian influenza viruses can cause a range of symptoms in wild birds, from mild to severe, depending on the strain. Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) strains, which are the most concerning, can cause sudden death in birds with little to no prior symptoms. If symptoms are observed, they can include neurological signs like tremors, twisted necks, circling, or an inability to fly. Birds might also appear lethargic, have swelling around the head, or show respiratory distress such as coughing or sneezing.

Waterfowl, like ducks and geese, are often considered natural reservoirs for avian influenza viruses, meaning they can carry the virus without necessarily showing severe signs themselves. This makes them a key factor in the spread of the disease. However, other wild birds, including raptors, gulls, and even some upland game birds, can also be affected. If you observe multiple dead or sick birds in an area, especially waterfowl or raptors, it's a strong indicator that avian influenza could be present.

Hunter Precautions and Handling Guidelines

For hunters, the good news is that the risk of contracting avian influenza from properly handled and cooked game birds is considered low. However, precautions are still necessary to minimize any potential exposure. Always wear gloves when field dressing wild birds, and avoid direct contact with sick or dead birds that you did not harvest. If you harvest a bird that appears lethargic, emaciated, or otherwise unhealthy, it's best to discard it and not consume the meat.

After handling game birds, thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water, and disinfect all tools and surfaces that came into contact with the birds. Cook all game birds to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill any potential viruses or bacteria. While you're enjoying the challenge of Goose Hunting Pennsylvania Fields, remember these simple steps to keep yourself and your family safe. It's a small effort that goes a long way in responsible hunting.

Impact on Pennsylvania Bird Populations

Avian influenza can have devastating impacts on specific bird populations, particularly during outbreaks of highly pathogenic strains. While waterfowl might often carry the virus with fewer ill effects, other species, like raptors, can be highly susceptible. We've seen instances where significant numbers of bald eagles and other birds of prey have succumbed to HPAI. These events can temporarily reduce local populations and disrupt ecological balances.

The PGC and other wildlife agencies constantly monitor for avian influenza, especially among migratory bird populations. Your reports of sick or dead birds are crucial for this surveillance effort, helping biologists understand migration patterns of the disease and implement any necessary management actions. While avian influenza hasn't completely halted hunting seasons in Pennsylvania, continued monitoring and hunter awareness are vital to protect both wild bird health and the safety of our hunting traditions.

Rabies: A Continual Concern with Furbearers and Predators

Rabies is a disease that probably conjures images of crazed animals, and for good reason—it’s a neurological disease that is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. It’s a serious concern, not just for the animals themselves, but for humans and domestic pets as well. If you’re involved in Predator and Furbearer Hunting in Pennsylvania, or even just enjoying a hike, understanding rabies is critical. It’s one of those diseases that makes you think twice about an animal acting out of character.

Identifying Rabid Animal Behavior

Rabies affects the brain and spinal cord, leading to a range of behavioral changes. The classic image of a "foaming at the mouth" animal is true, but not always the first or only symptom. Rabid animals might appear disoriented, unusually aggressive, or, conversely, unusually docile. They might lose their fear of humans or other animals, wander aimlessly, or show signs of paralysis, especially in the hind limbs. Nocturnal animals, such as raccoons, skunks, foxes, and bats, might be seen out during daylight hours without apparent reason.

It's important to remember that not every animal seen during the day is rabid, but any wild animal acting strangely should be treated with extreme caution and given a wide berth. If you encounter an animal exhibiting these signs, do not approach it. Your first step should be to report it to the PGC or your local animal control. This is especially true for species like coyotes or bobcats, where unusual behavior could be even more dangerous.

Handling Furbearers and Predator Hunting Safely

For trappers and hunters pursuing furbearers and predators, the risk of exposure to rabies is slightly elevated due to direct contact with these species. Always wear durable gloves when handling any furbearer or predator, especially when skinning or processing. Avoid touching the animal's saliva or brain matter. If you are bitten or scratched by a wild animal, or if its saliva comes into contact with an open wound or mucous membrane, seek immediate medical attention. Rabies is preventable with prompt post-exposure prophylaxis but is almost always fatal without it.

When you're out Coyote Calling in Pennsylvania Winter, keep a keen eye out for animals that don't respond naturally to calls or show any signs of illness. A coyote that seems overly aggressive or disoriented when it should be wary is a red flag. Practicing good hygiene in the field, thoroughly washing hands and disinfecting tools, is always a smart move, regardless of the perceived risk.

Protecting Pets and Livestock

Rabies isn't just a threat to wildlife and humans; it can also affect our beloved pets and livestock. Vaccinating your dogs, cats, and even some livestock (like horses) against rabies is the single most effective way to protect them. If your pet encounters a wild animal that is acting strangely, or is bitten by an unknown wild animal, contact your veterinarian immediately for advice, even if your pet is vaccinated.

Always supervise pets, especially in rural areas where encounters with wildlife are more common. Keep pets on a leash or within a fenced area to prevent them from interacting with potentially rabid wildlife. By taking these preventative steps, you're not only protecting your own animals but also reducing the overall risk of rabies transmission within your community, contributing to a healthier environment for everyone, including our wildlife.

Mange and Other Skin Conditions: When Animals Look Rough

Sometimes, when you're glassing a hillside or sitting on a deer stand, you might spot an animal that just looks… rough. Its fur might be patchy, it could be missing hair in clumps, or its skin might look inflamed and crusty. While not always fatal, these conditions, particularly mange, can severely impact an animal's well-being and appearance. It's tough to see a beautiful fox or a robust bear suffering, and as hunters, we often wonder if it's ethical or even safe to harvest such an animal.

Sarcoptic Mange in Bears and Foxes

Sarcoptic mange is a skin disease caused by microscopic mites that burrow into the skin, causing intense itching, hair loss, and crusting. It's particularly common and impactful in Pennsylvania's fox and black bear populations. An animal with severe mange will look emaciated, with large patches of missing fur, often around the face, ears, and hindquarters. The constant itching can lead to secondary skin infections, and in winter, the lack of insulating fur can cause hypothermia, ultimately leading to death.

Seeing a mangy fox or bear is increasingly common in Pennsylvania. While it's heartbreaking, it’s a natural occurrence in wildlife populations. For foxes, it can cause localized population declines, while in bears, severe cases can sometimes lead to death, especially for cubs or during harsh winters. The PGC monitors these cases, and hunters' reports of mangy animals provide valuable data on the disease's prevalence and impact.

Other Skin Issues and Their Significance

Beyond sarcoptic mange, wild animals can suffer from various other skin conditions. These might include ringworm, bacterial infections, or even injuries that cause hair loss and skin irritation. Sometimes, nutritional deficiencies can also manifest as poor coat quality. While these conditions are generally less severe than widespread mange, they can still indicate an underlying health issue or stress on the animal.

Often, these conditions are localized and don't affect the animal's overall health or the safety of its meat, especially if it appears otherwise healthy and robust. The key is to assess the animal's overall condition, not just a patch of missing fur. A healthy, robust deer with a minor skin lesion is very different from an emaciated, lethargic bear covered in scabs.

Deciding When to Harvest an Affected Animal

This is a moral and ethical dilemma many hunters face: should you harvest an animal with a skin condition like mange? The PGC advises against consuming meat from any animal that appears obviously sick or emaciated. If a bear or fox is severely afflicted with mange, looking very thin and suffering, harvesting it could be seen as a humane act, but consumption is still not recommended. These animals often have secondary infections that can make the meat undesirable or unsafe.

For a deer with a small, localized skin issue but is otherwise robust and healthy, the meat is likely fine after proper field dressing and cooking. However, if there's any doubt, it's always better to err on the side of caution. When in doubt, don't take the shot, or if you do, report it to the PGC for guidance. Always wear gloves during field dressing, regardless of the animal's apparent health, to protect against any potential skin irritants or pathogens. If you're wondering about Handling Bear Meat Safely, especially if the animal shows any signs of disease, consider consulting a professional meat processor.

Tick-Borne Illnesses: A Risk to Hunters Themselves

When we talk about wildlife diseases, it's easy to focus solely on the animals we hunt. But let's be real, as hunters and outdoor enthusiasts, we spend a lot of time in the prime habitat for one of the most prolific carriers of disease: ticks. These tiny arachnids are everywhere in Pennsylvania, and they pose a very real and personal health risk. It's a frustrating reality that while you're focused on deer sign, you're also constantly checking for these annoying little hitchhikers.

Lyme Disease and Anaplasmosis

Lyme disease is probably the most well-known tick-borne illness in Pennsylvania, and for good reason—it's incredibly prevalent. Transmitted by the blacklegged tick (deer tick), Lyme disease can cause a distinctive "bullseye" rash, fever, fatigue, and muscle aches. If untreated, it can lead to more serious joint, heart, and neurological problems. Anaplasmosis is another emerging tick-borne disease in Pennsylvania, also carried by the blacklegged tick. Its symptoms are similar to a severe flu: fever, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. While less common than Lyme, it can also cause serious health issues.

Beyond these two, there are other tick-borne diseases like Powassan virus and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever that, while rarer, are also present in Pennsylvania. The takeaway here is that tick bites are not just an annoyance; they are a serious health concern that every hunter needs to actively manage. Your long days in the woods, especially during spring turkey season or early archery, put you right in the thick of it.

Preventative Measures in the Field

Being proactive is your best defense against tick-borne illnesses. First and foremost, wear protective clothing. Long sleeves and pants, tucked into socks, create barriers. Treating your clothing and gear with permethrin is incredibly effective; it not only repels ticks but kills them on contact. Apply insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin directly to exposed skin.

When you're out there, whether you're still-hunting or sitting in a stand, try to avoid dense brush and tall grass, which are prime tick habitats. Stick to trails where possible, though we all know that's not always an option when you're chasing game. After the hunt, remember to put your clothes in a hot dryer for at least 10 minutes to kill any lingering ticks. These preventative steps are crucial for anyone spending time in the Pennsylvania wilds. Consider investing in a good mapping app like the one offered by GoHunt, which can help you identify dense areas where ticks might be particularly prevalent, allowing you to plan your routes strategically.

Checking for Ticks and Post-Hunt Care

The most important step after every outing is a thorough tick check. Don't skip this, even if you think you've been careful. Pay close attention to warm, hidden areas on your body: behind the knees, in the groin area, armpits, behind the ears, and in your hair. Use a mirror or have a partner help you check hard-to-see spots. Ticks can be tiny, so look carefully for what might just look like a new freckle or speck of dirt.

If you find an attached tick, remove it promptly and correctly. Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin's surface as possible. Pull upward with steady, even pressure. Do not twist or jerk the tick, as this can cause the mouthparts to break off and remain in the skin. After removing the tick, clean the bite area with rubbing alcohol or soap and water. Monitor the bite site for any signs of rash or infection, and if you develop flu-like symptoms or a rash within a few weeks, contact your doctor immediately and mention your recent outdoor activity. This proactive approach ensures that the risks from these tiny pests don't overshadow your passion for hunting.

General Best Practices for Pennsylvania Hunters

Beyond understanding specific diseases, there are overarching best practices that every Pennsylvania hunter should adopt. These aren't just about avoiding disease; they're about being a responsible, ethical, and informed steward of our wildlife resources. It's a testament to the fact that our role extends far beyond pulling a trigger.

Reporting Sick or Dead Wildlife

Your eyes and boots on the ground are invaluable to wildlife biologists. You are often the first to notice unusual activity or animal health issues. If you observe any wildlife that appears sick, acts strangely, or if you find multiple dead animals without clear cause, it is crucial to report it to the Pennsylvania Game Commission. Provide as much detail as possible: the species, number of animals, specific location (GPS coordinates are best if you have them), and a description of the symptoms or condition.

Don't assume someone else has reported it. Every piece of information helps the PGC track disease outbreaks, understand their spread, and implement appropriate management responses. You can typically find contact information for your regional PGC office on their website, or you can use their online reporting tools. Your active participation in Pennsylvania Wildlife Disease Monitoring is a vital service to all hunters and wildlife.

Proper Field Dressing and Meat Handling

Proper field dressing and meat handling are paramount, not just for quality table fare, but also for minimizing disease risk. Always wear gloves, preferably disposable latex or nitrile gloves, when field dressing any animal. Avoid direct contact with internal organs, especially the brain and spinal cord, which can harbor CWD prions. If you nick yourself during field dressing, wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water immediately.

Once the animal is dressed, cool the carcass as quickly as possible, especially during warmer weather. This inhibits bacterial growth and improves meat quality. If you have any concerns about the health of the animal, consider removing and discarding the lymph nodes, spleen, and tonsils. Thoroughly cook all game meat to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to kill any potential bacteria or parasites. Detailed advice on this can be found in our guide on Field Dressing a Deer in Cold Weather.

Disease	Primary Species Affected	Key Symptoms	Hunter Action	Risk to Humans (from meat)
Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD)	Deer, Elk	Severe weight loss, drooling, stumbling, lack of fear	Report sick animals, follow DMA carcass rules, consider testing, GoHunt for DMA boundaries.	Unproven, but avoid
Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD)/Bluetongue (BT)	Deer	Lethargy, swelling, blue tongue, seeking water, sudden death	Report sick/dead animals, do not consume meat from obviously sick deer.	None
Avian Influenza	Waterfowl, Upland Birds, Raptors	Tremors, twisted necks, sudden death, lethargy	Wear gloves, cook meat thoroughly (165°F), do not handle sick/dead birds.	Low, but use caution
Rabies	Furbearers, Predators, Bats	Aggression, disorientation, paralysis, lack of fear	Do not approach, report sick animals, wear gloves when handling, vaccinate pets.	High, if exposed
Sarcoptic Mange	Foxes, Bears	Hair loss, crusty skin, emaciation	Report severe cases, avoid consuming severely affected animals, wear gloves.	Low (skin irritation)
Tick-Borne Illnesses	Hunters (Lyme, Anaplasmosis)	Rash, fever, fatigue, aches	Permethrin on clothes, repellent on skin, tuck pants, thorough tick checks, seek medical help for symptoms.	High, if bitten

Keeping Safety a Priority

While disease awareness is critical, let's not forget the basics of hunter safety. Especially when you're focused on scanning the woods for signs of illness in game, it’s easy to get distracted. Always follow all firearm safety rules, be sure of your target and what's beyond it, and wear the appropriate amount of hunter orange during applicable seasons. For detailed information on this, check out our guide on Pennsylvania Hunter Orange Rules. These safety measures are fundamental to protecting yourself and others in the field.

Maintaining situational awareness, both for game and other hunters, is always important. If you're hunting in areas known for high disease prevalence, the added mental layer of scanning for sick animals should not override your primary safety protocols. The goal is to hunt smart, safely, and responsibly, ensuring that every trip into the Pennsylvania woods is a memorable one for all the right reasons.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or veterinary advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional or veterinarian for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to health or treatment. Follow all regulations and guidelines set forth by the Pennsylvania Game Commission and other relevant authorities.