Media Release
April 28, 2023
Douglas County Animal Services Confirms Positive Rabies Case
Following Racoon Attack
Public Urged to Take Proactive Measures and Exercise Caution
Douglas County, GA-On April 26, 2023, Douglas County Animal Control responded to a raccoon attack involving two owned canines in the North County Line area of Lithia Springs. Animal control subsequently captured the raccoon to submit it for rabies testing.
On April 27, 2023, DCAS received confirmation that the raccoon was positive for Rabies. Animal Control has begun notifying residents of the positive case. They also urge those with pets not yet vaccinated against rabies to do so immediately. Additionally, DCAS issued the following reminders.
• Keep your pet’s Rabies vaccinations up to date.
• Keep your cats indoors and your dogs on a leash when outside.
• Don’t leave food or garbage outside that may attract wild animals.
• Stay away from wild animals and do not feed them.
Rabies is a viral disease of mammals transmitted in the saliva of an infected animal. It is sent when the infected animal bites another mammal. In the United States, wild animals like raccoons, skunks, bats, and foxes mainly spread the rabies virus. Rabies in humans is 100% preventable by vaccination.
If you see wildlife or domesticated dogs and cats acting strangely, please call Animal Control at 770-942-5961.
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