Rabid Raccoon Found In Middletown Dec. 8

MIDDLETOWN, NJ — A rabid raccoon was found in the area of Claridge Drive and Cherry Tree Farm Road in Middletown this past weekend, and two dogs got into an altercation with the rabid animal, Middletown officials said.

Middletown Animal Control officers were called to the area of Claridge Drive and Cherry Tree Farm Road Saturday, Dec. 8, where two dogs had a confrontation with a raccoon. It is unknown if the dogs had any direct exposure to the raccoon.

The raccoon's carcass was sent to the New Jersey Department of Health Laboratory for testing, and on Wednesday Middletown was notified that the raccoon did indeed have rabies.

No humans were exposed in this incident, but residents are reminded to keep their dogs on leashes and avoid sick or injured animals. Also, make sure your pets are up to date on their rabies shots.

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