A neighbors photo of large brown bear that injured a young boy in North Castle before Police Euthanize Brown Bear After it Doesn’t Retreat
On Aug. 22, At 11:16 am, the North Castle Police Department received an E-911 call from a resident of 75 Hickory Kingdom Road who reported that a bear had just attacked their child on their property. Westchester County Department of Emergency Services was contacted who dispatched EMS from Banksville Fire Department, Armonk Fire Department, and a WEMS Paramedic. North Castle Police Officers and Animal Control also responded.
The child was treated by EMS and transported to a local hospital. Police Officers on scene observed the bear remaining in the rear yard, where the attack had occurred. The bear continued to present a danger to first responders and area residents.
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation was notified. The bear was euthanized by Officers on scene. New York State Department of Environmental Conservation responded to 75 Hickory Kingdom Road, took possession of the bear, and transported it to the Westchester County Department of Health for testing. Preliminary evaluation of the child’s condition did not indicate that the injuries were life threatening.
The Westchester County Department of Health has confirmed on Aug. 23 that the bear that attacked a child in Bedford as he played in his backyard on Tuesday has tested negative for rabies.
Residents should never approach or have contact with a stray or wild animal. Residents who see a stray or wild animal acting strangely should alert local authorities to avoid possible exposure to rabies. Residents can also help by keeping their trashcan lids securely sealed, removing wild bird feeders, and avoid leaving pet food outdoors.
Health Commissioner Sherlita Amler, MD, said: “If you see an animal that is acting aggressively, stay away from it and contact local police immediately.”
Unusual behavior may be the first sign of rabies in an animal. A rabid animal may become either abnormally aggressive or unusually tame. It may lose fear of people and become excited and irritable, or, conversely appear particularly passive and lethargic. Staggering and frothing at the mouth are sometimes noted.
Any physical contact with a wild or unfamiliar animal should be reported to a health care provider. All animal bites or contacts with animals suspected of having rabies must be reported to the Westchester County Department of Health at (914) 813-5000, 24 hours a day.
Keeping pet rabies vaccinations up to date is also important for protection against rabies. New York State law requires dogs, cats and ferrets to be vaccinated against rabies and receive regular booster shots. For more information, go to www.westchestergov.com/health or call the RABIES INFOLINE at (914) 813-5010.
google maps photo of 75 Hickory Kingdom Road in North Castle. The home is close to a nature preserve and two country clubs.
