Catawba County News

Two Rabies Cases Confirmed in County

Published: July 26, 2019

Catawba County Animal Services has confirmed the county’s fourth and fifth rabies cases of 2019.

On July 24, Animal Services responded to a call in Maiden concerning two dogs exposed to a skunk. The skunk was sent to the North Carolina Public Health Laboratory in Raleigh, which notified Animal Services July 26 that the skunk tested positive for rabies.

Because both dogs were current on their rabies vaccinations, Animal Services advised their owner to ensure they received booster vaccines following the incident. Per state vaccination guidelines, animals current on their rabies vaccination should receive a rabies booster within 96 hours of possible rabies exposure.

On June 11, rabies was confirmed in a feral cat in Hickory.

Signs that an animal may be infected with rabies include loss of appetite, irritability and unusual aggression, lack of fear and restlessness, dilated pupils, seizures, trembling and unsteadiness, difficulty swallowing, and drooling or foaming at the mouth. People who encounter an animal with any of these symptoms should avoid contact with the animal and report it to Catawba County Animal Services at (828) 464-7686. Pet owners who suspect their pet had contact with a rabid animal are also urged to call Animal Services.

Animal Services reminds pet owners that rabies is a threat to pets and humans year-round. The best way to protect pets is to have them properly vaccinated for rabies.