Rabid Fox Attacks 1 Man and 2 Dogs in Rockville, Prompting Alert

Q: Your pet is vaccinated for rabies. Is that enough to survive an attack from a rabid animal?

No. A current rabies vaccination gives a pet strong protection, but it is not enough by itself after an attack from a rabid animal. Veterinary and public health guidance is clear: a vaccinated pet that is bitten or otherwise exposed still needs prompt veterinary care, usually including a rabies booster within a few days of the exposure. Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms begin, so waiting to “see what happens” is dangerous. The vaccine matters enormously because it greatly improves the pet’s chances and usually leads to less severe post-exposure measures than for an unvaccinated animal. But it does not eliminate risk, especially if the exposure was serious or the pet’s shots are overdue. An unvaccinated or not-up-to-date pet may face strict quarantine or even euthanasia, depending on local rules and the circumstances of the exposure. If a pet is attacked by a fox, raccoon, bat, skunk, or any animal suspected of rabies, owners should wash any visible wound if it is safe to do so, keep the pet away from people and other animals, and contact a veterinarian immediately. In Rockville, residents are also being told to report aggressive or sick-acting wildlife to police at (240) 314-8900. For people, the rule is even stricter: wash the wound right away and seek urgent medical care for possible post-exposure treatment.

3 articles · Updated · Patch · Jun 8

Rockville City Police said a rabid fox attacked one man and two dogs in two separate incidents reported Saturday.
The attacks occurred in and around the Potomac Woods and Horizon Hills neighborhoods, including one incident involving a man and his dog and another involving a second dog.
Police urged residents to stay alert outdoors, keep pets indoors or closely supervised, and avoid any wild animal that appears aggressive or sick.
Anyone who sees the fox or another animal acting strangely was told to contact the department at 240-314-8900.