Report of Rabid Raccoon in Somerset County

The Somerset County Department of Health is advising residents that a raccoon found in the area of Hamilton Street and Amwell Road in the Somerset section of Franklin Township has tested positive for rabies.

On or about Sept. 16, a sick raccoon came in contact with a dog in the area of Hamilton Street and Amwell Road. The raccoon was sent to the public health laboratory at the New Jersey State Department of Health where rabies was confirmed. The dog was up-to-date with its rabies immunizations, and received a rabies booster as a precaution. The dog has been placed under a 45-day confinement by Franklin Township Animal Control.

Franklin Township residents who see an animal acting strangely should call the Franklin Township Animal Shelter at (732) 873-2500, ext. 6255, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., or the Franklin Township Police Department at (732) 873-2300, evenings and weekends.

“Pet owners should maintain a close watch over their pets – dogs, cats and other animals – to ensure that they do not come in contact with stray or wild animals when outdoors,” said Somerset County Health Officer Dr. Paul Masaba. “Pets should not be permitted to roam outdoors. However, if a pet has been outdoors unattended and is exhibiting unusual behavior, a veterinarian should be contacted.”

To prevent exposure to rabies, do not feed or handle unknown animals, and stay away from animals that are acting strangely. Wild or feral animals, including dogs, puppies, kittens and cats, should not be brought into the home, as they can be infected with the rabies virus.

Rabies is a serious and fatal disease in humans. People can get rabies through animal bites or when saliva of an infected animal enters the body through cuts or scratches. Rabies is preventable with prompt medical attention. Anyone who is bitten or scratched by a wild or stray animal - including stray dogs and cats - should promptly wash the area with soap and water and seek medical attention. If a pet is bitten or scratched, take it to a vet promptly. In either case, be sure to report the incident immediately to the police and the local health department. For a listing of health departments serving Somerset County municipalities, visit www.co.somerset.nj.us/health/localhealth.aspx

In Somerset County, dogs and cats are required to be routinely vaccinated against rabies. Residents are reminded of the importance of making sure their pets’ shots are current.

Throughout the year, Franklin Township sponsors several free rabies clinics for township cats and dogs. The next rabies clinic for dogs will be held Dec. 12 at the Franklin Township Animal Shelter, located at 475 Demott Lane in Somerset.

For further information on rabies, visit the New Jersey Department of Health website at www.nj.gov/health/cd/documents/faq/rabies_faq.pdf