“While we do not feel there is a need to panic, please be cautious when allowing pets outside and please do not leave them outside unattended," animal control said.
A Massachusetts town issued a warning to pet owners regarding an increase of wild animals displaying “neurological symptoms.”
“While we do not feel there is a need to panic, please be cautious when allowing pets outside and please do not leave them outside unattended,” the North Quabbin Regional Animal Control posted on Facebook.
A growing number of wild animals in Athol have been showing signs of neurological issues like falling over, stumbling, circling, not paying attention or noticing humans, or seizure-like symptoms, animal control officials wrote.
The animals exhibiting the symptoms have primarily been found in downtown Athol and the town’s Pinedale and Pequig neighborhoods, officials said.
The North Quabbin Regional Animal Control has been in contact with multiple state agencies regarding the cause of this “illness,” the department wrote.
Animal control also advised pet owners to insure their pets are up to date on their rabies and distemper vaccinations.
North Quabbin Regional Animal Control asked anyone who notices wildlife showing displays of odd behavior to call the Athol police non-emergency line at 978-249-3232.
North Quabbin Regional Animal Control did not respond to a request for comment regarding the type of wildlife potentially infected Sunday evening.
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