Middle Township Police announced that a raccoon with rabies was obtained after a dog attacked and killed it in Middle Township.
Investigators say the dog killed a raccoon back on December 22 in Green Creek. The raccoon was submitted to the The Cape May County Health Department on December 24 where it tested positive for rabies.
Middle Township Animal Control recommends that all cats and dogs be kept indoors when not attended.
Symptoms of rabies include the following:
- Stumbling or wobbly movement
- Overly friendly behavior
- Lethargy
- Paralysis
- Extreme Aggression
- Excess Salivation
If you see a nocturnal mammal such as a raccoon or skunk during the daytime exhibiting any of the aforementioned symptoms, please call Middle Township Animal Control at 609-465-8700. You should also call Animal Control if you see a wild or stray animal exhibiting any of those symptoms.
Middle Township Police also released the following information regarding dog licensing and a free rabies clinic:
Beginning February 1st, 2013 Middle Township Animal Control will enforce a zero tolerance policy for all dogs that are found to be at large and unlicensed in Middle Township. A summons will be issued for any dog which is found running at large that is not licensed with the Township.
To obtain a dog license application, go to www.middletownship.com and download the license application. Dog owners may also apply for a license in person at the Township Administration Office, 2nd floor, at 33 Mechanic Street, Cape May Court House. The license application must be submitted with proof of a current rabies vaccine that Expires after November 1, 2013. Licenses are given at a cost of $11.20 for an unaltered dog and $8.20 for any dog that is spayed or neutered. There is a grace period for licensing until January 31, 2013. Licensing your dog provides positive proof that the dog has been vaccinated against the deadly virus, rabies. A dog that is found at large with its license attached can easily be returned to its owners.
There will be a Free Rabies Clinic at Middle Township Public Works, 400 W. Mechanic St., Cape May Court House on January 26, 2013 Beginning at 2:00 PM and ending at 3:00 PM. This clinic is open to all cats and dogs. Dog licenses will be available at the clinic. It is recommended that you obtain and complete the license application to save time for anyone intending to purchase a license at the Free Rabies Clinic.
