By Kylie Galaviz | October 3, 2025

(DENTON, Texas – Oct. 2, 2025) Denton Animal Field Services captured two raccoons near UNT’s Crash Pad apartments Thursday morning after residents reported unusual behavior from the animals. The raccoons will be tested for rabies, and results will take several days, officials said.

James McDaniel, spokesperson for Animal Field Services, said officers responded to reports of raccoons acting aggressively around 814 Bernard Street. “While they are nocturnal creatures, it’s not unusual to see them out during the day foraging for food,” McDaniel said. He encouraged residents to secure trash bins and avoid feeding wildlife.

Some students said their encounters were frightening. Lily Campbell, a UNT sophomore, said three raccoons lunged at her while she was throwing away trash. She later posted on X, “Crazy raccoons at Crash Pads chased me back to my apartment. Wonder if they’re sick?” Torrance Harris, a UNT graduate student, said his dog barked at raccoons near their apartment window. “I’m really glad my dog didn’t get a hold of them. He’s a big boy, but I don’t want to lose him to rabies,” Harris said.

Dr. Kai Brooks of Denton Animal Hospital said only testing can confirm rabies but urged pet owners to keep vaccinations current. Rabies, which can be fatal to both humans and pets, is most often spread through bites. Brooks advised residents to avoid contact with sick or injured animals and call Animal Field Services if they notice concerning behavior.

Brooks said UNT students should remain cautious until test results are confirmed. The captured raccoons showed signs of illness, including watery eyes and unusual vocalizations, though one resident said they looked normal.

McDaniel said additional traps have been set near the apartments in case other raccoons are present. Officials said preventing wildlife from accessing trash and food left outside is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of exposure.