Rabies found throughout county

The number of animals testing positive for rabies this season in Ocean County has increased to 10, with the addition of one Lakewood rabid raccoon confirmed by the state lab, according to an Ocean County Health Department spokesman.

“The raccoon was sent to the lab for testing last week and the results came back positive for rabies,” said Edward Rumen, public information officer.

Rumen said the 10 rabid animals confirmed so far this season came from around the county. He said residents should remain watchful for animals acting strangely and avoid contact with them.

“Pet owners need to have their dogs and cats vaccinated against this disease,” said Freeholder Deputy Director Gerry P. Little. “Rabies is a preventable disease as long as your pet is vaccinated.”

Rumen said rabies is now a year-round concern in the county and is most prevalent in raccoons, skunks, foxes, bats and feral cats.

“With warmer weather, more critters come out of the woods in search of food, including garbage and bird feeders. Residents should keep their garbage cans tightly sealed to discourage foraging by wild animals,” he said.

Little said anyone spotting a wild or homeless animal acting strangely should avoid contact with the animal and notify the local animal control officer, describing it and its location.

“Your municipal clerk or police department can provide you with a phone number,” the freeholder said.