GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. — Is your pet acting a little strange? Gwinnett County officials say a raccoon with rabies could be the cause.
Gwinnett Animal Welfare says dogs attacked a raccoon along Buford Highway earlier this week. They learned the raccoon had rabies after taking it in for testing.
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Now, officials are saying you should keep an eye on your pets and watch out for any other animals acting strange.
According to the CDC, rabies is typically carried by wild animals, like foxes and raccoons, but can be fatal if contracted by people. The disease can be spread to people or animals through a bite or scratch.
Early symptoms of rabies include fever, headache and general weakness.
Infected animals may act aggressively, foam at the mouth and have trouble moving or move in a stiff way.
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If you believe you have been exposed to rabies, seek medical assistance immediately.
County officials say to help keep yourself from catching rabies, you should make sure your pets are getting their rabies shots regularly and report any strange behavior you notice in other animals.
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