WASHINGTON — Residents should be aware of an alert for a potentially rabid raccoon, seen around Falls Church, Virginia, since Wednesday.
The sick raccoon has had encounters with people and dogs along Greenwich Street, Lincoln Avenue, Park Avenue, Great Falls Street and the Washington and Old Dominion Trail.
A person has been scratched and two dogs have fought with the animal, according to a release from the city’s Office of Communications.
Residents are advised to keep a close watch of their pets and should not approach the raccoon if spotted. The animal is “mobile and aggressive,” according to the release, and could still appear around the area.
Animals that could potentially have rabies show symptoms that include:
- Staggering gait
- Oblivious to noise or nearby movement
- Erratic wandering or circling
- Excessive drooling
- Disorientation
- Wet and matted hair on face
- Repeated high-pitch vocalization
- Self-mutilation, biting or snapping
People should contact Falls Church police immediately if they spot this raccoon or any other rabid animals at 703-241-5053.
