CHERRY HILL, NJ — A skunk within the township has tested positive for rabies, the Camden County Department of Health and Human Services said.
On Friday, a resident's dog got into a fight with a skunk in the home's backyard.
An animal control officer recovered the skunk and scheduled it to be tested at a state lab in Trenton.
On Wednesday, the facility notified the health department that the skunk was rabid.
The local animal control officer and the dog's owner were both notified. There have been no known exposures to humans, according to officials.
The dog was vaccinated with a rabies booster and will be under confinement and observation for 45 days.
In order to reduce the risk of exposure, pets should have vaccinations routinely and be under direct supervision while outdoors.
A veterinarian should be contacted immediately if a pet is bitten or scratched by a wild animal.
People should also be cautious of open garbage cans and litter, as these sites may attract carriers.
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