Rabies Alert in Gloucester Township: Dog Encounters Rabid Raccoon
While enjoying the beautiful spring weather with their furry companions, encountering rabid animals is likely the last thing on most dog walkers’ minds.
One Gloucester Township resident recently faced this scary situation when their dog interacted with a rabid raccoon in their neighborhood. “[My dog] has a rabies shot and everything, but I never really had any concern,” said Chuck Lello, while spending time with his dog, Mira.
Camden County health officials reported that the raccoon exhibited unusual behavior. “The raccoon had a wobbly gait, was around during the daylight, going up to people,” said Alexis Traynor, an environmental health specialist at the Camden County Health Department.
Thankfully, animal control was able to capture the raccoon and send it for testing. The results confirmed rabies. The dog, although vaccinated, received a booster shot and is now under a four-month quarantine.
Rabies cases in animals are not uncommon, especially during warmer months. Last year, Camden County reported half a dozen such cases. Human rabies cases, however, are extremely rare. According to the state health department, the last known human case acquired in New Jersey was in 1997.
Veterinarians strongly emphasize the importance of rabies vaccinations for pets. Dr. Sheila Maier, a veterinarian and owner of Animal Hospital of Somerdale, has treated pets exposed to rabies. She warns that treatment becomes significantly more complex if the pet is not vaccinated. “The quarantine time can become much longer,” she explains. “Sadly, even euthanasia can be considered in some situations if these pets aren’t up to date. Having your pet vaccinated is the number one priority for their protection and immunity. It also makes handling potential exposures much less stressful for everyone involved.”
The specific location of the rabid raccoon encounter in Gloucester Township remains undisclosed by the county. Residents are advised to contact their local animal control if they see an animal acting strangely.
As a reminder, Camden County offers free rabies vaccines for pets. Their next clinic is this Saturday, from 9:00 AM to noon, at the Voorhees Town Center.
