Despite the reputation, Virginia opossums are rarely rabid; their core temp sits around 94–97°F, which makes it hard for the virus to take hold. If you see one staggering or unusually bold in midday traffic, keep space and call it in so we can check welfare without risking a bite.
extension for a dependable seal while keeping the frenum and midline tissues comfortable — any Agree — the PPS is the workhorse: I carve a stout notch-to-notch seal on the cast, then border mold heavy with greenstick and immediately nick 0.5 mm at the labial frenum so the seal stays vestibular, not on the tag. If PIP still shines at the incisive papilla after 48 hours with your 1 mm relief, I spot-relieve only the papilla or add a single micro-vent there, never touch the PPS.
My take: I’d lean toward the simplest next step and see if it changes anything this week — if not, you’ve got a clear case to escalate. What would block you from trying that?
I’ve only seen one ‘midday traffic’ opossum that looked rabid in five years; it was concussed from a bumper. , people try to scoop them — don’t; I throw on hazards and drop a cone or backpack 15–20 ft out to slow cars while I call it in. Rabies is still possible, just rare with that 94–97°F core temp, so no DIY rescues.