NEW BEDFORD, R.I. (WPRI) — Health officials are encouraging New Bedford residents to make sure their pets' rabies vaccinations are up to date after a raccoon found in Buttonwood Park tested positive for the deadly viral disease.

The mayor's office said state health officials notified the city of the positive rabies result on Thursday.

ALSO READ: West Nile virus detected near New Bedford Business Park

Rabies can affect a variety of different animals. Signs of the disease include abnormal aggressive behavior, lethargy, paralysis, self-mutilation, seizures, excessive salivation and difficulty breathing or swallowing.

Rabies is transmitted through saliva, normally through a bite, and may be fatal for both people and animals.

Under Massachusetts law, all dogs, cats and ferrets must have their rabies vaccinations. You can further protect your four-legged loved ones by spaying or neutering them, securing your property and always watching your pets when they are outside.

The city said anyone who sees an animal that may have rabies should keep a safe distance away and call New Bedford Animal Control at (508) 991-6366.

If you have had any contact with an animal that may be rabid, you should thoroughly wash the area, seek immediate medical attention and call the Massachusetts Department of Public Health at (617) 983-6800.

NEXT: Buttonwood Park Zoo celebrates first-ever litter of Canada lynx kittens

Watch for us in your inbox.

Subscribe Now

Daily Roundup