The raccoon was found in the pet owner's back yard next to his dog. The dog had apparently fought with the raccoon and had not been vaccinated against rabies. The dog was euthanized as required by state law.
State law requires that all dogs and cats age 4 months and older must be vaccinated against rabies. It is required not only for the protection of the pet, but also for the safety of pet owners and the general public.
Failure to get pets vaccinated is punishable by a fine of $100 per unvaccinated pet.
Rabies continues to pose a threat to pets and residents in Cumberland County. It can appear at any time and in any place. Residents must remain alert for abnormal behavior in wildlife and pets and report all animal bites and contact between pets and wildlife.
Rabies is a virus that attacks the brain and nervous system. It can infect all mammals and is seen mostly in bats, skunks, raccoons and other wild animals. People also can get the disease from an infected animal.
Rabies is a potentially life-threatening illness in people and is usually fatal in animals. The good news for humans is that there are effective treatments available for rabies if they are received soon after being exposed to the illness.
The first sign of rabies in animals is a change in behavior. Animals become aggressive, attacking for no reason, or they may become very quiet. Wild animals can lose their fear of people and act tame.
Rabid animals may walk in a circle, drag a leg or fall over. Some cannot swallow, so they are not able to eat or drink and often drool. Animals usually die within a week after first becoming ill.
Avoiding wild animals and keeping your distance from stray dogs and cats is the first step in preventing an animal bite. Any pet that appears to have been in a fight while outside should be handled very cautiously and seen by a veterinarian.If you are bitten by an animal:
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