Decatur Dogs Exposed To Rabid Animals: Authorities

DECATUR, GA — A raccoon and a fox recently picked up by DeKalb County Animal Services have both tested positive for rabies, authorities said Thursday. On Nov. 25, a resident reported that her two dogs killed a raccoon in her yard on Crandall Court in unincorporated Decatur.

The next day, another resident reported that her dog killed a fox in her yard on Dorset City in Decatur, near South Hairston and Wesley Chapel roads.

The pets involved in each case are current on their vaccinations and will be quarantined in their homes for 45 days after receiving a vaccination booster, animal control officials said in a news release.

Rabies is spread by the bite or scratch of an infected animal, such as a cat, raccoon, fox or bat. It is also spread when the infected animal's saliva comes in contact with the eyes, nose, mouth or open cut of a person or another animal.

Preventive treatment might be required for anyone who handled or fed the infected animals. Rabies is a fatal disease, and vaccines must be started as soon as possible.

A sign of rabies is a change in normal behavior. Some animals become excitable, irritable and aggressive, while others appear shy, timid, calm and docile. Animals that are normally active at night may become active and visible during the day. Infected animals may also have difficulty walking or may seem disoriented. Other symptoms include weakness, paralysis, inability to eat or drink, drooling, foaming at the mouth, and convulsions.

Anyone who has been bitten or scratched by a wild animal should seek medical attention immediately, officials said.

Residents are asked to watch pets and contact DeKalb County Animal Services if unusual or suspicious behavior occurs. Rabies can be prevented by a vaccine. Residents are responsible for vaccinating pets every year and registering their animals with DeKalb County Animal Services.

For more information, contact DeKalb County Animal Services at 404-294-2996 and press 2.

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