"Sick" Raccoon Not Found In Radnor’s Willows Park

RADNOR TWP — Radnor officials could not find a sick raccoon which attacked a woman and her two dogs Monday in The Willows Park, officials said Thursday.

William Gallagher, Radnor animal control officer, said he searched the area for a raccoon with negative results.

The woman, Amanda Bernard, and the dogs, a Jack Russell terrier, Venus, and a golden retriever, Ranger, survived the attack and are recovering in their Devon home under rabies protocol.

Gallagher said that it's important to remember that wildlife exists in the park and that pets should be under control at all times.

“Should you see an animal that appears sick or wounded, never approach, rather, dial 9-1-1,” Gallagher said.

Radnor police recommended that all dogs always be leashed in the park, regardless of training or perceived demeanor.

Gallagher said the township received a report of a possible sick raccoon at 6:45 p.m. Monday.

The animal control officer provided this account:

The woman was walking her two dogs along Skunk Hollow Trail in the area of the bridge closest to a parking lot when she heard a loud shrieking noise and encountered a raccoon.

The raccoon was hissing and attacked the smaller of the two dogs.

The larger dog, a golden retriever, intervened and was also attacked.

Both dogs were off leash at the time of this incident.

Bernard said she is grateful that all three survived the attack. She shared her story to let people know to be careful when walking in the parks.