CARNEY, MD – The Baltimore County Department of Health is warning local residents after officials recovered a rabid raccoon this week.

The dead animal was found in the 2700-block of Summit Avenue at Strabane Court (21234) on the evening of Wednesday, May 8, 2019. The animal tested positive for rabies.

If you, your pet, or anyone you know has recently had direct exposure (bites, scratches or licks) to a raccoon in the general area where the animal was recovered, please contact the Baltimore County Department of Health at 410-887-5963 during normal business hours. The number to call outside of normal business hours is 410-832-7182.

Residents are reminded of the potential dangers of feeding or handling wildlife and should adhere to the following rabies prevention tips:

Rabies Prevention Tips

• Consider the risk of rabies and other diseases before taking in or interacting with any animal, especially if the home contains children, persons with certain illnesses, elderly, or other pets.

• Since rabies remains uncontrolled in the wild, avoid contact with wildlife as well as stray or feral animals, especially if they appear to be sick. There is no risk-free contact with these animals with regard to physical injury, rabies and other diseases.

• Do not provide food, water or shelter to wildlife or strays. If you feed your pets outdoors, do not leave food or water bowls out for extended periods, especially overnight.

• Persons considering adopting stray or feral cats should speak with a veterinarian for guidance.

• Keep rabies vaccinations up-to-date for all pets and do not allow your pets to roam freely.

Baltimore County Animal Services provides low-cost rabies vaccinations and spay/neutering. For information on getting your pet spayed/neutered, micro-chipped, licensed, or vaccinated against rabies, call 410-887-PAWS (7297).