Officials Warn Pet Owners Of Rabid Raccoon in Dundalk
BALTIMORE COUNTY (WJZ) -- The Baltimore County Department of Health recently recovered a rabid raccoon from Rosebank Avenue in Dundalk on Monday, and officials are warning pet owners that it may have come in contact with local animals.
As a result of this serious public health threat, Baltimore County Animal Services placed traps where the raccoon was found to possibly catch other wild animals that may have contracted rabies from contact with it.
Any person who had direct contact with a raccoon should contact their physician for immediate risk assessment and treatment. And here are a few things to do if you're ever in a similar situation.
Rabies Prevention Tips:
- Keep your pet's rabies vaccinations up-to-date. It is recommended that all pets get microchipped and wear their license on their collar.
- Everyone should consider the risk of rabies and other diseases before taking in or interacting with any animal, especially if their home contains children, persons with certain illnesses, elderly, or other pets.
- Persons considering adopting stray or feral cats should speak with a veterinarian for guidance.
- Contact your doctor and the local health department if you are in this neighborhood and are bitten or scratched by your own animal, a wild, stray or feral animal.
- Since rabies remains uncontrolled in the wild, avoid contact with wildlife as well as stray animals, especially if they appear to be sick.
- For pets that are fed outdoors, do not leave food or water bowls out for extended periods, especially overnight. Contain garbage in tightly covered containers.
