Full Notification

The Denville Police Department would like to provide the Denville community with some facts and warning signs regarding raccoons.  Residents have called and asked what are the warning signs of a sick or rabid raccoon.  Below are some of the warning signs of a sick or rabid raccoon:

 -Unusual Behavior: a rabid raccoon may exhibit erratic or uneven movements, appear disoriented or react slowly. 
 -Stange Sounds: listen for unusual sounds. While some chit-chat among raccoons is normal, strange noises while they are out and about could indicate rabies.  
 -Foaming at the Mouth: a rabid raccoon might have an abnormal amount of saliva, leading to excessive drooling. 
 -Daytime Activity: although healthy raccoons can be active during the day occasionally, if a raccoon displays any of the above signs along with daytime activity, it may be rabid.  

In addition to learning the warning signs, here are some helpful facts on how to keep yourself and your pets safe from raccoons.

 - Never intentionally feed raccoons.
 - Avoid feeding pets outside.  If you must feed pets outside, pick up food as soon as they are finished eating. 
 - Do not allow dogs or cats to roam outside unsupervised and keep all vaccinations up to date for your pets.
 - Avoid the use of cat and dog doors, or use microchip-enabled smart doors that only open when they detect your pet's microchip.
 - Keep cats, rabbits and other small pets indoors.  
 - If you believe your pet has come in contact with a raccoon, contact your veterinarian.

If you have any questions regarding raccoons, rabies and/or other animal-related questions, please contact Animal Control Officer Meredith Petrillo at 973-627-4900; ext. 265