Rabies

Rabies is an infectious disease that affects the nervous system of mammals. It is usually transmitted through the bite of an infected animal, although disease transmission is possible if saliva from an infected animal comes in contact with an open wound or mucous membrane. Raccoons, bats, foxes and skunks are the animals most commonly associated with rabies.

Preventing Rabies

  • Avoid all contact with wild animals
  • Refrain from feeding pets outside
  • Keep all pets confined to your property
  • Keep all pets properly vaccinated
  • Seek immediate medical attention in the event of an animal bite or suspected contact with a bat
  • Notify your Town or City’s animal control officer or Ledge Light Health District if you see an animal exhibiting abnormal behavior (daytime activity in nocturnal animals, aggression, fearlessness, staggering, etc.)

Helpful Resources

  • When we are notified of a confirmed rabid animal by the State Health Department, we issue a press release and post an alert on the Public Health Alerts section of our website.
  • If you suspect that an animal may be rabid, please contact your local animal control officer:
    • Groton Animal Control: 860-445-9721
    • Ledyard Animal Control: 860-464-9621
    • Lyme Animal Control: 860-382-3357
    • New London Animal Control: 860-447-5231
    • North Stonington Animal Control: 860-287-2197
    • Old Lyme Animal Control: 860-434-3047
    • Stonington Animal Control: 860-599-4411
    • Waterford-East Lyme Animal Control: 860-442-9451