Dog Attacks Rabid Raccoon In South Brunswick

SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ — A resident's dog attacked a raccoon that turned out to be rabid last Wednesday in a backyard on Paul Avenue in South Brunswick, police said.

The attack occurred Wednesday, April 17. The raccoon was retrieved by South Brunswick Animal Control and turned over to the New Jersey Department of Health. On Monday, lab results came back that the raccoon tested positive for rabies.

This is the third rabid animal reported within Middlesex County for 2019 and the first rabid animal reported in South Brunswick. The South Brunswick Health Department continues to monitor rabies cases within the municipality.

Residents should report wild animals showing signs of unusual behavior to the police department. Additionally, it is recommended that residents should avoid contact with wild animals and immediately report any bites from wild or domestic animals to your local health department and consult a physician as soon as possible. Finally, be sure that all family pets are up to date on their rabies vaccinations and licenses.

Remember, an animal may be rabid if:

• Move slowly
• Appear sick
• Have an increase of saliva
• Act aggressive
• Have paralysis
• May act as if it is tame
• Have problems swallowing
• Have increased drooling
• Have difficulty moving
• Bite at everything if excited

Stay away and call 911 if you encounter such an animal. Additional information may be obtained by calling:South Brunswick Health Department at 732-329-4000 Ext. 7237 ORSouth Brunswick Animal Control at 732-329-4000 Ext. 7265