Officials Warn to Leave Animals in the Wild

Frederick, MD (KK) – Every year, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources respond to cases where residents have tried to care for or take home wild animals. Officials are warning that all wildlife should be left in its natural environment. This year, nearly 120 animals have been diagnosed with rabies in Maryland.

“Rabies is a fatal disease that affects the nervous system and any mammal can get rabies. In Maryland, we primarily see rabies in raccoons as well as foxes and skunks and bats,” said Doctor Kimberly Mitchell, chief of rabies with the Maryland Department of Health.

If you encounter an animal that needs help, call a licensed professional or the DNR.