For Immediate Release
October 2, 2020
MIDDLETOWN, NJ – The Middletown Township Health Department recovered a raccoon that was killed by multiple dogs on September 30, 2020. Middletown Animal Control found the animal in the area of Hopi Drive, Windy Hill Lane and Kings Highway East. The animal was sent to the State Laboratory for testing. Lab results received confirmed the raccoon was positive for Rabies.
Residents should not interact with wildlife under any circumstance. If you come across a sick or injured animal, keep your distance and avoid all contact. Call Animal Control at 732-615-2097 immediately or contact the Police Department at 732-615-2100 after hours and on weekends. Please make sure all domestic animals (dogs, cats, and livestock) are currently vaccinated with a Rabies shot. Do not let your pets run free off leash, even in the woods, to ensure they do not come in contact with wildlife that may be rabid.
Rabies is a fatal disease. The best course of defense is the vaccination of your pets and not handling or interacting with wildlife. If you are bitten or exposed to blood/saliva of an animal, contact your physician immediately. Contact your Veterinarian immediately if your pet was exposed to wildlife, even if previously vaccinated.
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