LEYDEN, MA (FRANKLIN COUNTY NOW) — Last week in Leyden a raccoon tested positive for rabies and the town is advising all outdoor pets and livestock update their rabies vaccination, if it hasn’t been updated within the past month. The raccoon carcass was found by a resident on Alexander Road on November 3rd and due to its abnormal features, was sent out for testing.

From the town of Leyden’s Board of Health:

Positive Rabid Racoon

There was a dead racoon found on Alexander Rd on Monday November 3. Because it was not a normal looking carcass and two dogs were seen near it, it was sent out for testing. Wild animals can travel some distance so we do not know where it may have been recently or whom or what animals may have had exposure. If you have domestic pets that go outside or livestock in that area you are advised to booster their rabies vaccine. Here are some basic facts about rabies:

Racoons, skunks, bats and woodchucks are the most affected wild animals in this area.

Rabies is only spread through saliva of an affected animal.

Usually, you will see some symptoms but not always. The most common thing is a behavior change. A wild animal will become “friendly or not afraid of humans” and a normally friendly pet will become not friendly of shy away from their humans.

Rabies is 100% deadly if not treated immediately.

If your pet/livestock have not been vaccinated recently (within a month) call your veterinarian for advice.

If you have any questions regarding yourself, call your doctor, if questions regarding your pet call your veterinarian.

Leyden Board Of Health