Recent reports reveal that Boston Animal Care and Control has discovered five rabid raccoons in Boston, with the most recent case found in Mission Hill. The raccoon, found near Hillside Avenue, tested positive for rabies on August 14th. Prior to this incident, three raccoons were picked up in Jamaica Plain, and one raccoon was recovered in Roslindale. Fortunately, no reports of rabies exposures or injuries in humans related to these wild animals have been made.
Boston Animal Care and Control emphasizes the importance of avoiding contact with and refraining from feeding wild animals. They urge Boston residents to report any sightings of animals behaving strangely by calling 617-635-5348. Additionally, pet owners are advised to ensure that their pets’ rabies shots are up to date for their safety.
In response to this concerning situation, the city will hold free rabies-vaccination clinics for dogs and cats. The first clinic will take place at the Curtis Hall Community Center in Jamaica Plain on September 16th, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The second clinic will be held at the Tobin Community Center on Mission Hill on September 30th, also from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Keeping the community informed and promoting preventive measures, the Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) provides relevant information regarding rabies.
As the discovery of rabid raccoons in Boston continues, it is crucial for residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautionary measures to protect both themselves and their pets from potential exposure to this dangerous disease.