Norfolk, Va. – A raccoon that tested positive for rabies had an “altercation” with two large dogs, according to Norfolk health department officials.
It happened on September 21 in the 7000 block of North Shore Road.
There were no human exposures and the dogs were up-to-date on their rabies vaccines.
This incident comes just days after a rabid cat was found at a Virginia Beach sports complex.
“It is important to note that, in the event of any exposure, all animal bites and scratches should be reported to local health departments,” the Norfolk Department of Public Health said.
If you need to take action to report an incident in the City of Norfolk, call the Environmental Health Division of the Norfolk Department of Public Health at 757-683-2712 or Norfolk Animal Control at 757-664-7387.
The Department of Public Health suggests that you take the following precautions to reduce risk of rabies exposure:
- Be sure dogs and cats are up-to-date on vaccinations.
- Keep pets confined to your home and yard.
- Keep yards free of food that could attract wild animals.
- Don’t handle, touch, or take in stray or wild animals.
- Warn adults and children to report any animal bites or scratches.
- Report stray or unvaccinated animals to animal control.
- Report all animal or human exposures to the Norfolk Health Department.
