Officials remind residents to have dogs, cats vaccinated
With multiple reports of rabies in wild animals in neighboring counties last week, officials are reminding people that dogs and cats must be vaccinated.
According to a release from the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, a raccoon that was “obviously ill, appeared weak, and was having difficulty walking,” was seen wandering through a neighborhood in West Mead Township, Crawford County.
The animal was killed and tested positive for rabies.
In Bradford, McKean County, “a bat was seen falling out of a tree in a yard,” according to another release. “The homeowner went outside, picked up the bat, and held it in his hands.”
The animal tested positive for rabies and the man is receiving treatment for exposure.
No other people nor animals are known to have been exposed to either of the rabid animals.
Pennsylvania law requires that all dogs and cats three months of age and older must be vaccinated against rabies, according to the Department of Agriculture. “Booster vaccinations must be administered periodically to maintain lifelong immunity. Failure to comply with the law may result in a fine of up to $300.”





