Full Notification

At approximately 10:30 a.m. today, Tuesday, October 23rd, the Borough Animal Control Officer captured a skunk which had been reported by multiple residents as exhibiting unusual behavior.  The skunk's remains will be sent to the State Department of Health Laboratory for testing but the animal's condition and behavior exhibited all of the classic symptoms of the rabies virus.  The Borough of Washington is sending this notice as a strong reminder to all residents that residents should not be interacting with, handling, or feeding wildlife or stray animals, including feral cats. If you come across a sick or injured animal, keep your distance and promptly report the sighting to the Animal Control Officer at (908) 763-5035 or Warren County Communications at (908) 689-2111

Please make sure all domestic animals are currently up to date with a Rabies vaccination. Outside feeding of domestic pets, strays, and feral colonies must be discouraged as it adds to the attraction of potentially rabid animals close to homes and family members. Do not let your pets run free off leash to ensure they do not come in contact with wildlife that may be rabid. There is always a chance that encounters may occur without anyone’s knowledge until after rabies symptoms appear, at which point it is too late.  Rabies is a 100% fatal disease. The best course of defense is the vaccination of your pets and avoiding all contact with wildlife and strays.

Instructions:

Do not approach, handle, or feed wild or feral animals. Report all suspicions of rabies to the Animal Control Officer