October 2019


www.hamptonroadsmessenger.com


Rabid Raccoon Found on the 300 Block of Park Road


The Hampton Roads Messenger 3


Photo courtesy of Jean Beaufort (This is not the actual raccoon found in Portsmouth) BY PORTSMOUTHVA.GOV


On September 28, 2019, the Portsmouth Bureau of Animal Control was notified by a caller that a raccoon, which was found on the 300 block of Park Road in Portsmouth, was exhibiting erratic behavior consistent with signs and symptoms of rabies. On October 3, 2019, the Portsmouth Department of Public Health received results from the


Department of


Consolidated Laboratory Services that the raccoon had tested positive for the rabies virus. At this time, no human or animal exposures have been reported. The


advises that Portsmouth residents and visitors


Health take


the


Department following


strongly steps


1. ELIMINATE OUTDOOR


FOOD SOURCES AROUND THE HOME: A. Do not feed stray dogs or cats, or any wild animal. B. Garbage containers should be securely sealed with lids. C. After feeding pets, bring leftover food inside or dispose of it properly. D. Bird food should be placed in a bird feeder inaccessible to wild animals. E. Food stored in outbuildings


to


prevent families and pets from being exposed to rabies:


(barns, open garages) should be


inaccessible to animals. 2. AVOID CONTACT


BETWEEN YOURSELF (OR YOUR PETS) AND WILD ANIMALS OR STRAY DOGS AND CATS: A. Report any stray animals to the Portsmouth Bureau of Animal Control at 393-8430 and avoid contact with this animal. If contact occurs between any wild animal and you or your pet, contact the Portsmouth Department of Public Health at 393-8585 ext. 8585. It is imperative that you receive medical treatment as soon as possible. Call your veterinarian to examine your pet for wounds and administer a booster rabies shot. B. Keep dogs and cats confined to your property. Animals that are allowed to roam are more prone to come into contact with wild animals such as foxes and raccoons.


3. VACCINATE ALL PETS


AGAINST RABIES, IT’S THE LAW! (Code of the City of Portsmouth, Chapter 4 Animals, Article 4 Rabies Control- Section 4-96. Vaccination of Dogs or Cats).


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