Free rabies shots for pets are available monthly at the Atlantic County Animal Shelter in Pleasantville.
PLEASANTVILLE - After a sixth case of rabies was reported in Hamilton Township bat this past week, the Atlantic County Division of Public Health has announced it will hold its next free monthly rabies vaccination clinic for cats and dogs 9 a.m. to noon Sunday, Sept. 10 at the Atlantic County Animal Shelter 240 Old Turnpike in Pleasantville. Attendance is available by appointment only at www.aclink.org/animalshelter.
A bat collected in Mays Landing on Aug. 21 was confirmed positive on Aug. 23. It was the second case of rabies in Hamilton Township this year and included exposure to two humans and a domestic cat. Health officials are advising family members, while the cat received a rabies booster shot and was placed under a 45-day confinement.
A rabies vaccination is recommended for domestic animals to not only protect the pet but also the pet owner and family members who could contract rabies from an infected pet.
Most human cases of rabies are the result of a bite from an infected animal and can be fatal if left untreated. Rabies can be transmitted to humans through direct contact with saliva and through broken skin or mucous membranes in the eyes, nose or mouth
If you are bitten by an animal, wash the wound immediately with soap and water and seek medical attention. All bites should be reported to the Atlantic County Division of Public Health at 609-645-5971.
Public health officials advise residents to teach children to stay away from wild, stray or aggressive animals. Never feed or touch wild animals or try to keep them as pets.
Residents should ensure trash cans have secure lids to prevent wildlife from foraging for food and not leave pet food outside. Many animals are also attracted to bird seed.
If you see wildlife that is behaving strangely, especially nocturnal animals such as skunks and raccoons found during daylight hours, do not approach the animal. Instead, call your local Animal Control Officer. Contact information is available on the county web site at www.aclink.org/animal-shelter/municipal.asp
For more information about rabies control and precautions to protect your family and your pets, please visit the county web site at www.aclink.org/publichealth or call 609-645-5971.
