Rabid Skunk Found In Thompsonville

A skunk that had been in direct contact with a dog in the Thompsonville section of town has tested positive for rabies.

Enfield Animal Control was notified of the incident Saturday in the area of Spring and South streets. The skunk was submitted for rabies testing at the State Lab in Hartford, and Enfield authorities were notified Monday that the skunk was positive for rabies.

This is the in Enfield in the past five weeks. A rabid raccoon was caught and euthanized in the Brainard Road area on Feb. 18.

Clinical signs of rabies in animals include fever, loss of appetite, excessive irritability, unusual vocalization, change in behavior, restlessness, jumping at noises, trouble walking, excess salivation, tremors, convulsions, paralysis, stupors or unprovoked aggression.

Enfield Animal Control stresses the importance to all residents not to approach or handle any wildlife, and asks parents to explain this to their children. It also reminds all residents it is state law to vaccinate your dog(s) and cat(s). If your animal is not vaccinated or the vaccination has expired, you should contact your veterinarian. If you have any questions in regards to rabies, you can contact your local health department, animal control office, or your veterinarian.