A rabies infected raccoon attacked a family dog in Copperas Cove Thursday.
Copperas Cove Animal Control was dispatched to the 2400 block of Dennis Street where they impounded the raccoon.
The Texas Department of Health Laboratory in Austin ran tests and notified Animal Control after confirming the rabies case.
The Copperas Cove Police Department is encouraging any citizen who believes they or their pet have had any contact with raccoons or wild animal to contact Copperas Cove Animal Control immediately at (254)547-5584 (9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday- Friday)
After hours calls should be made to Copperas Cove PD at (254)547-8222.
Also, contact your physician and/or veterinarian in the case of possible animal exposure.
Rabies infection cases are more frequent with Bats, Coyotes, Raccoons, Skunks, and Foxes.
Symptoms of a rabies infection for most people may include but are not limited to fever, headaches, fatigue, respiration difficulties, possible paralysis or hyperactivity, or coma.
Signs of rabies in pets may include fever, chewing at the site of the infection or bite, erratic behavior, walking aimlessly, general restlessness, skin irritability, sensitivity to light, aggression in typically passive animals, and unusual behavior for that animal.
Citizens are warned to avoid contact with wild animals and to protect their homes and property by covering garbage cans, not leaving pet food outside, etc.
Anyone suspicious of a wild animal acting strangely should contact Animal Control immediately.
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