According to one neighbor, an Oregon Hill Riverside Park neighbor was recently walking his dog near the river when he was attacked by a rabid fox. Fortunately, he was able to keep his dog from harm’s way, while batting away the fox. Though he did get bitten, he was able to eventually give the crazed animal a swift kick and then deliver it a fatal blow with a rock. Supposedly the dog is fine while the man is undergoing a series of rabies shots.

Release from the Virginia Department of Health:

Following recent (weekend) reports of two persons in the City of Richmond being bitten by a fox, the Richmond City Health District is advising residents to take precautions to prevent their risk of contracting rabies from domestic or woodland animals. Laboratory test of the fox involved in the biting incidents revealed that it was rabid.

Both biting incidents occurred in or near Belle Isle at the James River Park. During the summer and warm weather, animals and people are more active out of doors and the likelihood of encounters increase. The public is advised not to approach wild animals either in the woods or if they wander onto your property, especially if they’re acting strangely. Limit the possibility of rabies exposure by keeping your pets on your property; don’t let your pets roam freely.

Don’t attract wild animals into your yard by leaving pet food or garbage out.

Make sure your pets are vaccinated for rabies and keep shots up to date.

Rabies can be deadly; it is caused by a virus that attacks the nervous system. The virus is in the saliva and brain of rabid animals. It can be transmitted through a bite or by getting infected saliva in the eyes, mucous tissue or an open wound.

If you or your pet is attacked or bitten by a wild animal, report it to the health department or animal control authorities. If possible, restrain the animal so that it can be tested.

For more information about rabies and animal bites, call the Richmond Health District at 205-3912 or the call Richmond Animal Care & Control at 646-5573.