Raccoon tests positive for rabies after dog encounter in Hubbardston; board warns residents

The Town of Hubbardston Board of Health said on Oct. 28 that a raccoon trapped after an Oct. 17 incident tested positive for rabies following contact with a dog at 20 New Templeton Road.

According to the board, local responders captured and euthanized the raccoon, and the specimen was submitted for testing; results returned positive for rabies. The dog involved had contact with the raccoon; board members said they expect the dog's veterinarian to follow standard protocols (vaccination or treatment) and that residents should be aware of the presence of potentially rabid wildlife.

Members noted that raccoons living in family groups can transmit disease within a group and said daytime activity by raccoons can be a sign to exercise caution. The board encouraged pet owners to confirm vaccination status and to report suspicious wildlife sightings to the health office.

No human exposures or additional control actions were recorded in the transcript; staff and members said they would monitor for follow-up notifications and for any test results on the dog as they become available.