Dog Exposed To Rabid Raccoon In Camden Co. Backyard

VOORHEES, NJ — A Camden County resident's dog has been confined after exposure to a raccoon that tested positive for rabies, officials said Wednesday.

A Voorhees resident found a raccoon in their backyard Oct. 12 while their dog was outside. Animal control picked up the raccoon and arranged for rabies testing at a state lab.

Camden County health officials were informed Tuesday that the raccoon was rabid.

The Camden County Department of Health and Human Services received proof of vaccination for the dog, which will be under confinement and observation for four months.

There were no known human exposures to the raccoon.

Human deaths from rabies are rare in the United States, with fewer than 10 per year since 1960, according to the CDC. But rabies is fatal in more than 99 percent of cases, with no treatment once signs or symptoms emerge, so post-exposure treatment is vital for people and animals.

The best way to avoid rabies is to keep your distance from wildlife, the CDC says. Never approach animals who appear sick, injured of dead — call animal control for assistance when needed.

Pet owners can lower their risk by keeping their pets up to date on rabies vaccines and keeping them away from wild animals as much as possible.

Visit the CDC's webpage for more information on rabies.