Georgia Man Bitten By Rabid Raccoon During Hour-Long Rescue Attempt

A Georgia man was bitten on his face and hands by a raccoon that later tested positive for rabies. The man discovered the injured animal and wrapped it in his coat, holding it against his chest during an hour-long drive to the wildlife facility. The raccoon attacked him while driving, prompting him to return home and secure the animal in a blanket with duct tape before completing the trip. Nature center staff placed the raccoon in a kennel upon arrival and urged the man to seek hospital treatment. The animal was euthanized at a veterinary hospital and tested positive for rabies within 48 hours. Wildlife officials said the man’s actions put children, volunteers, and staff at risk. The Chattahoochee Nature Center stated in a Facebook post: “While the finder’s heart was in the right place, he put himself, his family, CNC’s staff, volunteers and visitors… and the staff of Bells Ferry all at risk.” (Story URL)