Rabid Raccoon Sighted In Cumberland County

UPPER DEERFIELD, N.J. (CBS) - A rabid raccoon was sighted in the backyard of a Cumberland County home last month, according to county health officials.

The raccoon was found fighting with a dog behind an Upper Deefield Township home. Health officials say no one was bitten, but the resident was exposed to the raccoon's saliva. The dog's rabies vaccination was reportedly up-to-date.

A neighbor's dog was also present, but officials say exposure to the raccoon has not yet been confirmed.

Rabies is a fatal disease that can affect humans and animals. Signs of the rabies virus in skunks, raccoons, cats, or dogs consist of foaming at the mouth, drooling saliva, or having an unstable or wobbly walk.

The Cumberland County Health Department is encouraging pet owners to make sure their pets are up-to-date with rabies vaccinations.

When attending one of the clinics, owners are asked to bring cats in a carrying case, box, or pillowcase and dogs in a cage or on a leash.

If you would like more information about the rabies virus or the rabies clinics, please call the Cumberland County Health Department at 327-7602 ext. 7139.