The Westchester County Department of Health is alerting residents that a coyote in the Eastchester/Bronxville area has tested positive for rabies. The animal attacked six dogs and three people on March 9, near Siwanoy Country Club and Twin Lakes Park.
Anyone who has been bitten or scratched by an animal should seek medical attention immediately. Also, any animal bite or physical contact with an animal suspected of having rabies must be reported to the Westchester County Department of Health at (914) 813-5000, available 24 hours a day. Residents who may have had any contact with a wild or stray animal are also advised to notify their health care provider and contact the Health Department immediately for guidance.
Health officials note that unusual behavior is often the first sign of rabies in an animal. A rabid animal may appear aggressive or unusually tame, lose its fear of people, act irritable or excitable, or appear lethargic. Other possible signs include staggering or frothing at the mouth. Residents should never approach or attempt to handle a wild or stray animal. Any animal behaving strangely should be reported to local authorities.
Keeping pets vaccinated against rabies is also essential. New York State law requires dogs, cats and ferrets to be vaccinated against rabies and receive regular booster shots.
For more information about rabies prevention, visit health.westchestercountyny.gov or call the Rabies Infoline at (914) 813-5010.
Eastchester Police had issued a warning days before the Coyote was deemed to have rabies. “Our department received numerous calls of coyote sightings and aggressive behavior, in the California Ridge neighborhood. Several of the incidents involved coyotes approaching and attacking dogs either on the street or in a residential backyard. The coyotes are believed to have dens on private property as well within the Twin Lakes County Park. We have contacted and are working closely with the NYS DEC Police. Residents in the area of California Ridge and Bronxville Manor should take extra precautions when walking their dogs and should not leave pets unattended in their yards. Young children should not be left attended outside near Siwanoy Country Club and Twin Lakes Park.”
