Rabies Alert # 4

From Middletown Alerts:

The Middletown Township Health Department has received laboratory confirmation of another raccoon testing positive for Rabies. This is the fourth report of a rabid animal this year. The raccoon was tested after it was killed by a dog. The incident happened in the area of Clay Court and Hartshorne Road. The pet owner contacted the Health Department after receiving the last Rabies Advisory sent out by the Township; otherwise, this incident may have gone unreported.


The dog involved in this altercation with the rabid raccoon was currently up to date on its rabies vaccination. As a result, it will be quarantined at home for only 45 days, as a precaution. This situation could have been more severe if the family pet was not properly vaccinated. Any dog or cat found to be in direct contact with a known rabid animal that is not properly immunized would be handled in a much different manner. The domestic animal would be placed under either a strict 6 month confinement in a cage with no human contact or would be humanely euthanized to protect the family and the public from the Rabies virus.

It is imperative that all dogs and cats are licensed in the Township. A valid rabies shot is required for licensing and ensures that all of our domestic pets (dogs and cats) are protected and do not end up as noted above when found to be in contact with another rabid animal.

Residents should not be interacting with any 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.