TAMPA, Fla. -- A rabid raccoon attacked a dog in Tampa.
Hillsborough County health officials say it happened around 9:30 p.m. on Nov. 30 in the area of W. Thornton Avenue.
The dog had been vaccinated and is expected to be fine, but authorities instructed the owner to quarantine the pet for 45 days. A rabies booster was also recommended.
Rabies affects the nervous system and can be fatal. In the past year, Hillsborough County has identified 10 rabid animals, including cats, bats and raccoons. Officials say at least 20 people and five dogs were exposed to the disease in 2018.
Health experts are using the incident as a reminder that any people or pets exposed to wild animals acting usually should report the encounters to local health officials and health care providers.
The contact number for the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County is 813-307-8059. If your pet is bitten by an animal that might be rabid, you can also contact the Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center at 813-744-5660.
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