Authorities have confirmed a raccoon found behaving abnormally on Arlington Drive in the Mapleton Development last week tested positive for rabies.
MANSFIELD — Authorities have confirmed a raccoon found behaving abnormally on Arlington Drive in the Mapleton Development last week tested positive for rabies.
According to police, officers were dispatched to the development the morning of Feb. 25. An officer responding noted the animal was foaming at the mouth and appeared to be rabid, according to authorities. The raccoon was euthanized after consultation with the local animal control officer and subsequently submitted for testing.
Police were informed last Friday of the positive test.
The animal control officer also informed police that the animal had injuries indicating it had been involved in a fight with another animal.
Residents are cautioned to be mindful of any animals – wild or domestic – that exhibit any abnormal behavior, as any animal involved with the raccoon may have contracted rabies.
Residents are urged to contact the police immediately at 609-723-8300 if any animal is seen acting strangely, appears disoriented or active at odd hours — such as a nocturnal animal active during the daytime.

