The Denville Township Health Department issued a public health advisory on Friday regarding a rabid coyote.

A coyote in Tourne County Park recently tested positive for rabies.

“We urge residents not to feed, approach or permit their pets to interact with coyotes or other animals which are potential carriers of rabies, particularly those which appear sick”, said Denville Township’s Health Officer. Dr. Carlos Perez Jr.

The Denville Township Health Department has recommended the following precautions to protect residents from possible exposure, which include avoiding direct contact with wild or stray animals, not feeding or touching wild animals, not allowing cats or dogs to have contact with wild animals, and vaccinating pets against rabies and keeping vaccinations up to date.

Residents are encouraged to be alert and to report any sick or injured animals such as coyotes, raccoons, skunks, foxes, woodchucks, bats and feral animals to the Denville Township Police Department at 973-627-4900.