Rabies confirmed in Rutland raccoon after dog attack
A raccoon found in the town of Rutland tested positive for rabies after it attacked an unvaccinated dog, and three people received preventive treatment after reported exposure.
A raccoon found in the town of Rutland tested positive for rabies, the Jefferson County Public Health Service said. The animal attacked an unvaccinated dog, which was euthanized, and three people who reported exposure received preventive treatment.
The case is the 14th rabies-positive animal identified in Jefferson County in 2026. County health officials advise residents to avoid unfamiliar animals, keep pet vaccinations current and contact a veterinarian after a pet encounters wildlife. Jefferson County Public Health is scheduled to hold a rabies vaccination clinic from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the city of Watertown Department of Public Works.
This story was written from a community submission and reviewed by a ClickNNY editor before publication.