Rabies Alert Issued After Main Street Groundhog Tests Positive

PEEKSKILL, NY — City residents are being asked to watch for possible rabies exposure after a groundhog found on Main Street tested positive for the virus.

According to the alert, the Animal Control Officer and Peekskill police responded Wednesday, at about 10:30 a.m., to the 800 block of Main St. for a report of an aggressive groundhog. Based on the animal's behavior, the Animal Control Officer requested that it be euthanized and taken for testing.

The Westchester County Department of Health later notified Animal Control that the groundhog tested positive for rabies.

Residents with possible exposure are being directed to call the Animal Control Officer at 914-862-1430 or the Westchester County Department of Health at 914-864-7359.

Representatives from the Westchester County Department of Health will be posting notices in the area, according to the alert.

Those who see other aggressive animals are being asked to contact the Peekskill Police Department.