Crime & Safety

Rabies Alert: Coventry Fox Tested Positive

Police want residents to contact Animal Control if they or their pets may have come into contact with a rabid animal.

COVENTRY, RI — A rabid fox came near a residence on Provident Place on Wednesday, according to Coventry police. "

The resident advised that there was a fox in his yard that had attacked his dogs," said Col. John S. MacDonald, police chief. "The first Animal Control Officer arrived on scene, and the fox charged at the Officer. A second Animal Control Officer arrived, and the two Officers were able to secure the Fox with their catch poles."

The fox was killed and taken to the state Department of Health where it tested positive for rabies, he said. "The dogs were not injured in the incident. Both the dogs and their owner are being treated for rabies exposure."

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Police advise residents to call the Animal Control Officer at 401-822-9106 if their pets need rabies vaccinations or if they believe they or their animals may have come in contact with the fox.

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