May 28, 2025
MEDIA CONTACT: Nicole Yirenkyi, (757) 382-8672
Rabid Raccoon Discovered in Riverwalk
CHESAPEAKE, Va. – The Chesapeake Health Department recently received a report from Chesapeake Animal Services (CAS) regarding an encounter between a raccoon and a pet dog. The incident occurred on May 18, 2025, in the 200 block of Marsh Island Drive in the Rivercrest neighborhood of Chesapeake, near The River Club Park.
A resident witnessed the encounter between the dog and the raccoon. The raccoon did not survive the incident. Testing confirmed the raccoon as rabies positive. The dog sustained minor injuries and was current on rabies immunizations.
Residents are advised to avoid contact with wildlife in the area, and ensure all pets and livestock are current on vaccinations. State law requires all dogs and cats over the age of four months to be vaccinated against rabies. The City of Chesapeake requires all dogs and cats over four months of age to be licensed.
Rabies is a deadly disease caused by a virus that attacks the nervous system. It kills almost any mammal or human that gets sick from it. The rabies virus is mainly in the saliva and brain of rabid animals. It can be transmitted through a bite or getting saliva or brain tissue in a wound, eye, nose, or mouth.
Rabies is rare in currently vaccinated animals.
Rabies is highly preventable if the vaccine is given early and as recommended. Unfortunately, without preventive treatment, by the time someone develops symptoms of rabies, there is no cure, and the disease is fatal in almost 100% of cases”, said Dr. Nancy Welch, health director for the Chesapeake Health Department. To prevent rabies in dogs and cats, keep them up to date on their rabies vaccinations.
The health director strongly emphasizes the following recommendations for Chesapeake residents to take in protecting their families and their pets from rabies:
– If your pet and/or livestock has been in contact with an animal that might be rabid, check for injuries and contact the Chesapeake Animal Control at (757) 382-8080.
– Seek medical treatment promptly for any animal bite to ensure appropriate and timely evaluation and treatment. All animal exposures must be taken seriously.
– Do not approach wild animals, especially raccoons, bats, foxes, or skunks. If you think a wild animal needs help, call the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources or a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for guidance
– Bring stray domestic animals, especially if they appear ill or injured, to the attention of local animal control authorities. If you think a stray animal needs help, contact your local animal control office for guidance.
– Have your veterinarian vaccinate your dogs, cats, ferrets, and selected livestock. Keep the vaccinations up to date. Consult your veterinarian or the Chesapeake Health Department if you have any questions about pet vaccinations.
– Confine your pets and livestock to your property.
– Securely seal garbage containers with lids.
For more information on rabies, contact:
- The Chesapeake Health Department (757) 382-8672
- Chesapeake Animal Control at (757) 382-8080
- Virginia Department of Health vdh.virginia.gov/Epidemiology/DEE/Rabies/
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention cdc.gov/ncidod/dvrd/rabies/default.htm
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