The Town of Southbury has experienced an uptick in confirmed rabid wildlife. Unfortunately, on 01/04/21, there was a Bobcat attack on a pet and her two owners in the Purchase area of Southbury. The Bobcat is deceased and tested positive for Rabies. Though this was a rare and isolated incident, it is important for residents to be aware.
Thankfully, the dog was up to date on her Rabies vaccinations and the owners began their Rabies vaccination series. The dog has been placed on a 45 day strict confinement and should make a recovery. If the pet had not had a Rabies vaccination, she may have been placed on a six month quarantine, or even been subject to mandated euthanasia as Rabies virus poses a public health and safety issue.
This serves as a reminder of the importance of vaccinations for pets. Animal Control asks owners to make certain that all pets, indoor and outdoor, are up to date with their rabies vaccinations.
Animal Control would like to remind pet owners to supervise their pets and to be cautious of leaving them unattended while outdoors. While walking outside or hiking, it is recommended to have a second person accompanying you and to carry an air horn.
Some common symptoms of rabies can be unprovoked aggression, difficulty walking, and excess salivation. If you or your pet have had contact with wildlife, call Southbury Animal Control and follow up with a healthcare provider and/or veterinarian.
For further questions, or to report wildlife contact with a human or pet, please call Southbury Animal Control at 203-262-0613.
Rabies fact sheets, full list of symptoms, and other information can be found at https://portal.ct.gov/DOAG/Regulatory/Regulatory/Rabies-Manual.