ISLE OF WIGHT, Va. (WAVY) — A raccoon that tested positive for rabies was killed by a dog in the Days Point Road area of Isle of Wight, according to the Isle of Wight Health Department.

Officials said, the dog had an up-to-date vaccination against rabies, but it will receive a booster shot as an added precaution. Additionally, the dog been placed under a 45-day observation period.

Rabies is almost always fatal humans who are not vaccinated against the disease. It is also fatal in infected domestic dogs and cats that have not been vaccinated.

Western Tidewater Health District Health Director Angela Tillery strongly recommends the following guidelines to protect against rabies:

• If your pet has been in contact with an animal that might be rabid, contact Isle of Wight Animal Control at 757-365-6318 or the Isle of Wight Health Department at 757-279-3078.
• Seek medical treatment promptly for any animal bite to ensure appropriate and timely evaluation and treatment. All animal exposures must be taken seriously.
• Do not approach wild or stray animals, especially raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, cats and dogs.
• Ensure all pet dogs, cats and ferrets have current rabies vaccinations. Please consult your veterinarian, Isle of Wight Animal Control, or the Isle of Wight Health Department if you have any questions about pet vaccinations.
• Confine your pets to your property.
• Securely seal garbage containers with lids.

According to state law, all dogs and cats over the age of four months are required to be vaccinated for rabies.

For more information on rabies contact the Isle of Wight Health Department at 757-279-3078 or visit the Virginia Department of Health’s website or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website.