NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (WLNE) — The City of New Bedford said that a raccoon found in the Buttonwood Park area tested positive for rabies. The Health Department and Animal Control said pet owners should make sure their pets are up-to-date on rabies vaccinations. According to the City of New Bedford, signs of rabies can include: Abnormal or aggressive behavior Lethargy, weakness or paralysis Self-mutilation Seizures Excessive salivation Difficulty breathing or swallowing Rabies is transmitted through saliva, commonly through a bite, scratch, or other physical contact. If you have contact with a potential rabid animal, thoroughly wash the area, seek medical attention, and contact the Massachusetts Department of Public Health at 617-983-6800. Rabies infections are fatal for humans and animals. New Bedford officials said residents can protect their pets by up-to-date vaccinations, spaying and neutering, and by covering garbage cans and repairing holes in houses. The city added that citizens should keep a safe distance from any animal that may be infected with rabies, and to call New Bedford Animal control at 508-991-6366.     Categories: Massachusetts, News