Rabid Raccoon In South Brunswick Was In Contact With Resident’s Dog

SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ - A raccoon in South Brunswick, who was in contact with a resident's dog, has tested positive for rabies, officials said.

On May 10, the dog had an “altercation” with the raccoon in the vicinity of Ridge Road near Route 522. Animal control was called and the raccoon was taken to the New Jersey Department of Health Laboratory.

On Thursday, the laboratory reported that the raccoon tested positive for rabies, officials said. This is the first rabid animal reported within South Brunswick Township this year.

The South Brunswick Health Department is monitoring all rabies cases within the municipality. Residents should report wild animals showing signs of unusual behavior to the Police Department. Additionally, residents should avoid contact with wild animals and immediately report any bites from animals to South Brunswick Health Department and consult a physician as soon as possible, officials said. All family pets need to be up to date on their rabies vaccinations and licenses.

Here are some guidelines for residents to follow in order to prevent rabies transmission:

• Immediately report a bite from a wild or domestic animal to the local health department.
• Wash animal bite wounds thoroughly with soap and water as soon as possible after the bite.
• Contamination of open cuts or scratches with the saliva of potentially rabid animals should also be washed off immediately.
• Consult a physician as soon as possible.
• Immediately report any wild animal showing signs of unusual behavior like acting aggressive, having paralysis, having problems swallowing, having increased drooling etc.
• Avoid any contact with the animal and call the Animal Control Officer or Police Dispatch.
• Animal-proof home and yard.
• Make sure all garbage containers have tight-fitting lids, do not leave pet food or water outside.
• Do not feed or handle any wild animals.
• Avoid contact with stray animals or pets other than your own.

Should your pet come in contact with a wild animal, call the Animal Control Officer or Police Dispatch immediately.

For reporting an incident with an animal or for additional information contact: South Brunswick Animal Control at 732-329-4000 Ext. 7265 South Brunswick Health Department at 732-329-4000 Ext. 7237

Thank you for reading. Have a correction or news tip? Email sarah.salvadore@patch.com

Get breaking news alerts on your phone with our app. Download here. Sign up to get Patch emails so you don't miss out on local and statewide news