09/11/2026
Reminder to vaccinate your pets and avoid contact with wildlife and outdoor cats.
If you see an animal acting suspiciously or aggressively; contact the county animal control for your current location for further instruction and help.
If you are bit/scratched, please seek medical attention as soon as possible; rabies infection without the post-exposure prophylaxis care is 100% fatal.
If your pet comes into contact with wildlife contact your veterinarian for further instruction.
Virginia is a rabies hotspot and we need to take all precautions possible for our health, our pets and community cat's health, and health of our native wildlife.
⚠️ Rabies alert ⚠️
Animal Control is advising that a brown tabby cat attacked multiple people near the 9700 block of Maryus Road on September 4, 2026. It was picked up by officers, and tested positive for rabies.
If you see any strange-acting animals, please contact Animal Control (804-693-5290) or the Health Department (804-693-6130). Officers are conducting additional trapping in the area, out of an abundance of caution - please keep your owned animal inside for the time being.
Additionally, if you've been bitten or scratched by any animal, it's very important (and required by law) that you contact the Gloucester Health Department.
Rabies is caused by a virus that attacks the nervous system and is nearly 100% lethal if proper medical care is not given following an exposure.
The most common source of exposure to rabies is a bite by a rabid animal. Rabies may also be transmitted by saliva from a rabid animal coming into contact with open wounds, the mouth, eyes or nose.
You can protect yourself by following these guidelines:
💉 If your pet and/or livestock has been in contact with an animal that might be rabid, check for injuries and contact Animal Control.
💉Seek medical treatment promptly for any animal bite. All animal exposures must be taken seriously.
💉 Do not approach wild animals, especially raccoons, bats, foxes, or skunks. If you think a wild animal needs help, contact the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources at (804) 367-1000.
💉Bring stray domestic animals, especially if they appear ill or injured, to the attention of local animal control authorities. If you think a stray animal needs help, contact your local animal control office for guidance.
💉 Have your veterinarian vaccinate your dogs, cats, ferrets, and selected livestock. Keep the vaccinations up to date. State law requires all dogs and cats over the age of four months to be vaccinated against rabies.
💉 Confine your pets and livestock to your property.
💉Securely seal garbage containers with lids.
If you are bitten by a wild or stray animal do not panic. Wash the wound(s) thoroughly with warm soapy water and contact animal control, your healthcare provider or the health department for further recommendations.
For more information about rabies, visit: https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/animal-contact-human-health/rabies-control/
