Health officials: 2 pet dogs fight off rabid raccoon in East Brunswick

The raccoon is the fifth animal to test positive for rabies in Middlesex County this year.

Toniann Antonelli

Oct 2, 2024, 12:02 PM

Updated 12 days ago

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Two pet dogs at an East Brunswick home took on a raccoon that later tested positive for rabies, Middlesex County health officials said Tuesday.
According to the Middlesex County Office of Health Services, the incident occurred on Sept. 26. Officials say the dogs fought a raccoon that wandered onto the family's property in the vicinity of Frost Avenue and Kings Road. The raccoon was captured by the local animal control officer and taken to the New Jersey Department of Health Laboratory. Officials learned on Tuesday that the animal tested positive for rabies.
Health officials say no humans were exposed to the rabid raccoon.
Authorities did not indicate if the dogs suffered any severe injuries, but both were treated by a veterinarian.
"The residents took their dogs to a veterinarian and had their rabies vaccinations boostered," the health department said in a statement.
The raccoon was the second animal to test positive for rabies in East Brunswick so far this year, and the fifth reported in Middlesex County. The county says it will continue to monitor rabies cases in East Brunswick and encourages residents to report any wild animals showing signs of unusual behavior. Animals infected with rabies may appear sick, move slowly or be aggressive, have increased drooling or paralysis. The health department adds that if possible, homeowners should also take steps to screen off any vents or access points to attic areas that could provide shelter for bats or other animals that could be infected with rabies.
Health officials say animals including bats, skunks, groundhogs, foxes, cats and dogs make up 95% of animals that test positive for rabies in the United States.
Health officials also advise residents to immediately contact their local health department to report any wild animal bites, and to see a doctor as soon as possible. Families should also make sure pets are up-to-date with rabies vaccinations.