A fox that bit a dog near Stockton University this week has tested positive for rabies and Atlantic County health officials are reminding of the importance of protecting your pets with a rabies vaccination.

Here is a press release from the Atlantic County Public Information Officer with details on how to safeguard your family and pets.

"Atlantic County health officials are reminding residents of the importance of protecting their pets with a rabies vaccination after a dog that was running with its owner near Waterway Drive on the Stockton University campus in Galloway Township was confronted and bitten by a fox.

The fox was soon captured and sent to the state lab for testing where it was confirmed positive for rabies on August 16. The dog was current on its rabies vaccination but received a booster vaccination for added protection.

This is the second case of rabies in Atlantic County this year. The first case was confirmed in a domestic cat in Egg Harbor Township. Atlantic County had a total of 10 rabies cases last year involving 4 raccoons, 3 cats, 2 bats and a skunk.

Rabies is a viral disease that is fatal if left untreated. Pet owners are advised to protect their pets with a rabies vaccination.

The Atlantic County Animal Shelter provides a free rabies vaccination clinic for dogs and cats once a month at 240 Old Turnpike Road in Pleasantville. The next clinic will be held on Sunday, August 27, 9-11 AM. Dogs must be brought on leashes and cats in carriers. For more information call (609) 485-2345 or visit www.aclink.org/animalshelter.

Dogs and cats who receive an initial rabies vaccination are not considered immunized until 28 days after the vaccine has been administered, therefore it is strongly recommended that any animal newly vaccinated or those too young to receive the vaccine (less than three months) not be left outdoors unattended. Situations have arisen where pet owners have left unvaccinated or newly vaccinated pets outdoors where they have sustained exposures to known or suspect rabid animals, resulting in euthanasia or four to six months strict confinement.

Public health officials also advise residents to teach your children to stay away from wild, stray or aggressive animals. Never feed or touch wild animals or try to keep them as pets.

If you are bitten by an animal, wash the wound immediately with soap and water and seek medical attention.

Report all animal bites to the Atlantic County Division of Public Health at 609-645-5971."

 

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