On May 2-3, 2021, complaints were received by the Falls Church Police Department regarding a cat originally sighted in the 100 block of Gresham Place and later on the 100 block of W Jefferson Street. The cat was confined by a member of the public on May 3rd, with that person sustaining minor injuries. The cat was transported to the Animal Welfare League of Arlington, by the Falls Church Police Department, where it was humanely euthanized due to neurological symptoms. The cat tested clinically positive for rabies.
Rabies is a disease that people and animals can catch from the bite or scratch of infected animals. It is fatal if medical care is not given promptly.
Arlington County Animal Control and the Arlington County Department of Human Services are urging anyone who may have been bitten or scratched by any animal including a cat described as medium sized, Domestic Long Hair, Grey/White with white on its chest and face to reach out immediately. If you, your children, or your pets had any potential contact with this animal please call Arlington County Animal Control promptly at 703-931-9241.
Residents are encouraged to:
- Ensure pets are up to date on their rabies and distemper vaccines
- Keep dogs on a leash at all times and keep cats inside
- Do not approach or feed any wild animals
- Feed pets inside
- Remove wildlife attractants from yards, such as unsecured garbage cans, open containers of food and compost
Arlington County Animal Control is also urging residents to remain vigilant and if they see any animal that appears sick, lethargic, disoriented, or aggressive to stay away from the animal and call Animal Control immediately: 703-931-9241. If you come across a deceased rabies vector animal (including cats, dogs, foxes, raccoons, and groundhogs) in your yard or a public space please also contact Animal Control promptly and do not handle the animal.
