Rabid Raccoon Found in New Milford

The New Milford Health Department has issued a statement that a raccoon found in New Milford last week has tested positive for rabies.

In an email, officer Sam Yanovich said that rabies, if untreated, is a deadly disease contracted from exposure to the saliva of an infected animal, either from a bite or scratch and advises residents to be cautious upon encountering any wildlife.

Yanovich further advises residents to report to the health department any incidence of their dog or cat coming into contact with any wild animal, even if their pet has been vaccinated.

Yanovich also wants to remind new pet owners that dogs and cats should be vaccinated with rabies vaccine beginning at six months of age.

Editor's update 4/12: Yanovich informed Patch that the raccoon was found in the northern section of town on River Road.