Rabid Raccoon Found In Newtown

Town Animal Control Officer George Mattegat warns residents that the town has encountered its first case of rabies this year.

Tests this week confirmed that a raccoon found last week off Parmalee Hill Road was rabid, he said.

 Mr Mattegat urged that pet owners keep their dogs and cats safe from rabies by maintaining proper inoculations.

When going outside, owners should keep their pets on leashes, he said. Animals should not be allowed to roam, he added. Suspicion of a pet having rabies can lead to extended quarantines, he said.