A raccoon killed by a dog in Maryland tested positive for rabies, prompting health officials to warn that other pets or people might have encountered the infected animal. Carroll County Animal Control responded to the incident near York Street and Route 140 in Taneytown on August 27. Following testing, it was confirmed that the raccoon had rabies.
Officials are urging anyone who may have come into contact with the raccoon, or who believes their pet did, to contact the Carroll County Health Department at 410-876-1884 for a risk assessment. Rabies can spread through bites, scratches, or saliva entering open wounds or mucous membranes, according to Rabies Program Manager Joe Mancuso.
Residents are advised not to approach wild or stray animals and to ensure their pets are vaccinated against rabies. Anyone spotting a sick or unusual animal should contact Carroll County Animal Control. If pets are bitten or scratched by a wild animal, owners should wash the area, isolate the pet, and contact a veterinarian and the Health Department.
A low-cost rabies vaccination clinic is scheduled for September 20 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Carroll County Agriculture Center in Westminster.
