The Niagara County Department of Health confirmed three cases of rabies in wild animals including two raccoons and a bat in the Town of Lockport over the past two weeks. The health department is urging residents to take precautions to protect themselves and their pets.
The first case involved a raccoon that was captured on October 23rd on Parkwood Drive by a nuisance wildlife control official. Fortunately, there were no reports of contact with pets or humans in this incident.
The second raccoon was caught on October 31st after an encounter with three dogs at a residence on Stone Road. Health officials reported that no humans were exposed and they are currently verifying the vaccination status of the dogs involved.
On the same day, a bat was found outdoors on Presidential Way. Health officials believe it did not have contact with humans or pets. In a press release, health officials emphasized that while these three cases occurred within the same town, there is no indication that they are related.
“Residents are reminded to avoid feeding or having contact with wild or stray animals,” the statement read. To further protect against rabies, health officials advise that pets should be kept indoors at night and vaccinated against rabies.
New York State law mandates that all dogs, cats, and ferrets over the age of four months must be vaccinated. Rabies is commonly found in bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes, and can only be confirmed through laboratory testing. The health department is urging residents to remain vigilant and report any unusual behavior in wild animals to local authorities.
Three Cases of Rabies Confirmed in Wild Animals in Niagara County