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The warning, issued in Dutchess County, said a rabid raccoon had been captured in the Village of Tivoli near the intersection of Broadway and Montgomery Streets.
Health officials said they are available to respond to any resident who is concerned they, or their animals, may have been exposed.
"Do not approach non-domesticated animals," the department said. "If you see an animal acting strangely, or if you, your pet, or someone you know gets bitten by, or has an open wound exposed to the saliva or nervous tissue of a domestic or wild animal, call DBCH immediately."
In addition, DBCH Commissioner Dr. A. K. Vaidian reminds pet owners of the importance of vaccinating all dogs, cats, and ferrets, even if they are considered “house pets” that remain indoors: “If a pet is not up-to-date on its rabies vaccination and fights with a rabid or suspect-rabid animal, the pet must be promptly destroyed or placed in quarantine for six months to protect other animals and people in case the pet develops rabies."
If left untreated, rabies is fatal to humans as well.
To contact the department during business hours: call 845-486-3404; nights, weekends and holidays call 845-431-6465.
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