Middletown Rabies Alert 7-29-15

From Middletown Alerts:

The Middletown Township Health Department has received laboratory confirmation of a raccoon testing positive for Rabies. The raccoon was tested after possible interaction with a dog. This incident happened in the area of Millbrook Drive, located in the New Monmouth section of town. Luckily, no wounds were found on the dog according to Health Department Director Rich DeBenedetto.

In light of finding a rabid raccoon, we would like to remind residents about the possibility of wildlife being infected with Rabies. Please make sure all domestic animals (dogs, cats, and livestock) are currently vaccinated with a Rabies shot. Domestic animals that are not properly vaccinated and come in contact with a rabid animal must be confined for six months in an approved pen or facility by the owner or humanely euthanized to protect the family members from possible exposure to the Rabies virus, DeBenedetto added.

Residents should not be interacting with wildlife. If you come across a sick or injured animal, keep your distance and please contact Animal Control at 732-615-2097 immediately or contact the Police Department after hours and on weekends. Remember, Rabies is a fatal disease. The best course of defense is the vaccination of your pets and not handling or interacting with wildlife.

For more information, do not hesitate to contact Animal Control at 732-615-2097.