2 dogs and their owners exposed to rabid skunk in Cherry Hill
Health officials say the dogs were having an altercation with the skunk.
More Stories
Two dogs are being held for observation after contact with a rabid skunk in Cherry Hill.
Camden County health officials say residents found their dogs fighting a skunk in their backyard on Feb. 20. The dog owners trapped the skunk and took it to a wildlife rescue center. The animal was tested for rabies at the state's Public Health & Environmental Laboratories in Trenton.
The skunk tested positive for rabies. Both humans who trapped the skunk were potentially exposed as well.
"The dogs will be under confinement and observation for four months. The involved humans were recommended to speak to their physicians about receiving post-exposure prophylaxis," the health department said in a statement.
"Rabies is a serious illness, but it can be prevented by early treatment after exposure," said Commissioner Jennifer Cooley Fleisher, liaison to the Camden County Department of Health and Human Services. "If you have been bitten or scratched by a wild animal, it is important that you seek immediate medical attention."
Fleisher advises residents to keep an eye on pets when outdoors and seek veterinary help if they're bitten or scratched by a wild animal.
