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LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. | A raccoon tested positive for rabies in Buford on Tuesday, causing local officials to issue a warning to local residents to be on the lookout for other rabid animals. A dog was attacked by the raccoon in the Pebblebrook Court/Arden Drive area in Buford on Monday. The raccoon was collected by animal welfare on Monday and brought to the shelter.
Both the Gwinnett Animal Welfare and Enforcement Department and the Gwinnett Health Department issued warnings to residents. What’s particularly dangerous is that rabid racoons change their habits when they have rabies. Instead of keeping to themselves and scurrying away when they see people, rabid racoons turn friendly. They want to be around people.
Dr. Audrey Arona, district director of the Health Department, says: “Animals with rabies can behave in a variety of ways. It is critically important to remind individuals to avoid contact with animals they do not know, both wild animals and domestic animals, including cats and dogs. If you see an animal acting strange, make sure to call animal control. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, it is very important that you contact your medical provider. You can also contact the Health Department at 770-339-4260.”
All pet owners should make sure their pets are current on the rabies vaccination. According to the National Association of State Health Veterinarians, unvaccinated dogs and cats exposed to a rabid animal must be strictly quarantined for four months and vaccinated one month prior to being released.
If left untreated, the rabies virus can be fatal in humans. Early symptoms of rabies include fever, headache and general weakness or discomfort.
Here are some tips to help protect you and your family:
- Make sure your pets get their rabies shots regularly and keep them on your property;
- Do not leave garbage or pet food outside;
- Report any animal acting unusual to Gwinnett County Animal Welfare and Enforcement; and
- Stay away from wild, sick, hurt or dead animals.
If you believe you have been exposed, immediately seek medical care. To report the animal and have it picked up, call the Gwinnett Animal Welfare and Enforcement Bite Office at 770-339-3200 ext. 5576; after hours, contact Dispatch non-emergency at 770-513-5700.
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