NORWICH – An unusually large amount of sick wildlife has been making the rounds within city limits over the past four months and authorities are cautioning people to be aware of the situation and to keep a close eye on their pets.

According to Police Chief Joseph Angelino, police have responded to more than 20 calls involving skunks or other wildlife acting in a sickly manner since October, in all areas of the city.

Residents should be especially watchful of their pets, said Angelino, and the first line of defense is making sure pets are up to date on their vaccinations. Even so – while vaccination can help prevent sickness – police reported some sick animals are aggressive and could cause bite injuries to unsupervised pets.

Locally, there are three government agencies involved in the matter, including law enforcement, said Angelino. The city’s Code Enforcement Agency continues to remind residents to keep their garbage cans covered at all times, while the county’s Public Health Department has been doing its best to educate the public on the dangers of sick wildlife.