Rabies Testing Protocols

New CT Rabies Testing Protocols

Rabies is a widespread, viral infection transmitted through the saliva of infected warm-blooded animals. The virus attacks the nervous system and, if left untreated, is 100 percent fatal in animals.

Rabies usually begins subtly, with pet owners first noticing that their pet goes off its food and just "doesn't seem right". The animal may become restless and irritable, have a "strange look in its eyes" and make funny sounding cries or barks. As illness progresses, nervous system signs become more obvious with tremors appearing, difficulty walking and swallowing, and even convulsions and paralysis developing. Affected animals may or may not try to bite or show other signs of aggression.

If your pet begins to show any of these symptoms, notify the Animal Control Officer at (860) 287-2197 and seek the care and advice of a veterinarian. Separate your animal from other animals and humans immediately.

Rabies Questions
Anyone having questions concerning dogs, cats and other domestic animals that may have been exposed to a suspected rabid animal should contact the Animal Control Officer at (860) 287-2197 or the State Animal Control Division at (860) 713-2506.

Anyone having questions concerning possible human exposure to rabies should contact the Animal Control Officer at (860) 287-2197 or the state Department of Public Health at (860) 509-7994.

 

Anyone having questions concerning wildlife, including unusual behavior, can contact the Department of Environmental Protection, Wildlife Division at (860) 424-3011 or for emergencies (860) 424-3333.

Rabies Symptoms

  • Fever
  • Loss of appetite
  • Excessive irritability
  • Unusual vocalizations
  • Change of behavior
  • Restlessness
  • Jumping at noises
  • Trouble walking
  • Excess salivation
  • Tremors
  • Convulsions
  • Paralysis
  • Stupor
  • Unprovoked aggression.