Rabid Coyote Attacks 3 People, 2 Dogs In Buford

BUFORD, GA — A rabid coyote recently attacked three people and two dogs in Buford, prompting a warning from the Gwinnett County Animal Shelter.

The local shelter this week said the first attack happened on Dec. 26 near Holland Park Drive, where a person and dog were injured.

Then, two more people and a second dog were injured in attacks at 6 a.m. and 6:30 a.m., Dec. 27, near Wyncliff Road and Bennies Way, the shelter said.

The person attacked on Wyncliff detailed the incident in a WAGA-TV report, saying his primary purpose was to protect his Shih Tzu, Gigi. He reportedly indicated he was injured in the hand and leg.

The coyote was reportedly shot and captured, which Animal Control said tested positive for rabies.

The local agency urged people to be cautious and avoid odd-behaving animals as rabies, transmitted through bites and scratches from wild animals, could be fatal in humans if the disease is not treated.

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Human symptoms of rabies include fever, headaches and general weakness or discomfort, officials said.

Animal Control encouraged pet owners to make sure their pets are up to date on their rabies vaccination.

"According to the National Association of State Health Veterinarians, unvaccinated dogs and cats exposed to a rabid animal must be strictly quarantined for four months and vaccinated one month prior to being released," Animal Control said.

Anyone who suspects they have been bitten or scratched by a rabid stray animal should seek immediate medical care and tell their health-care provider of the exposure, officials said.

Officials with Gwinnett, Newton and Rockdale Public Health can be contacted at (770) 339-4260.

To report rabid animals, officials requested people call the Animal Control's Bite Office, (770) 339-3200, ext. 5576. The after-hours non-emergency dispatch line is (770) 513-5700.