Rabid Woodchuck Found Near Glenridge Road in Katonah

Westchester County has issed a rabies alert for locals who may have come into contact with a rabid woodchuck in the vicinity of Glenridge Road prior to Friday, July 22.

“Anyone who believes that they or a pet may have had contact with this woodchuck or this skunk should contact the Westchester County Department of Health immediately at (914) 813-5000 to assess the need for rabies treatment,” said Dr. Cheryl Archbald, the county's acting commissioner of health, in a statement. “Anyone bitten by a rabid animal, or having contact with its saliva, may need to receive immediate rabies vaccination.”

There have been a series of rabid animals in the region this season, including , ,  and .

A near Rockefeller State Park Preserve on Sunday.

Signs of rabid animals may include unusually tame or aggressive behavoir, staggering or frothing at the mouth, according to the county department of health. Residents should not come into direct contact with any wild or stray animals and should report to the county any animal bites or contact with animals that might be rabid.

State law requires pet owners to keep dogs, cats and ferrets up-to-date on their rabies vaccinations.

Information about rabies and its prevention can be found on the Health Department’s website at www.westchestergov.com/health. Residents can also call the RABIES INFOLINE at (914) 813-5010 to listen to a taped message.