Cumberland County Animal Services says rabies case confirmed in raccoon

Cumberland County officials are warning the public to protect their pets against rabies after the North Carolina Public Health Lab confirmed a case of rabies off Strickland Bridge Road, a news release said.

Cumberland County Animal Services said a resident reported their dog was in a fight with a raccoon in the 6200 block of Withers Drive on Saturday, the release said. The dog killed the raccoon during the fight and did not sustain any injuries, according to the release.

The dog that encountered the raccoon had up-to-date vaccinations for rabies.

Animal Services responded and sent the raccoon to the N.C. State Public Health Lab in Raleigh, where the animal was confirmed to be rabid, officials said.

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The release warns pet owners that the first signs of an animal that has contracted rabies is usually a change in behavior, followed by the animal becoming more aggressive, attacking for no reason or suddenly becoming very quiet. Other signs include animals that are walking in a circle, dragging a leg, or falling over. Some animals will become unable to swallow, making it difficult for them to eat or drink, and they often die within a week of first becoming ill, according to the release.

"All pet owners are urged to check the rabies vaccination status of their pets," the release said. "If pets are not vaccinated or are due for a booster shot, they should be taken to a local veterinarian for rabies vaccination immediately."

Officials said to avoid wild and stray animals, while also making sure any pets involved in an outside fight are handled with caution and taken to a veterinarian.

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, the release recommends that the wound be immediately washed under running water for at least 10 minutes with plenty of soap, and for the victim to seek medical attention at an emergency room.

Pet owners should also be reminded that state law requires that all dogs and cats be vaccinated against rabies and owners are subject to a $100 fine for each unvaccinated dog or cat, officials said.

Rabies vaccinations are available for $5 from 2 to 4 p.m. Wednesdays at Animal Services, 4704 Corporation Drive.

Animal Services is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday. During business hours, Animals Services can be reached at 910-321-6852. Cumberland County Emergency Services can also be reached for emergencies outside business hours at 910-323-1141.

Public safety reporter Joseph Pierre can be reached at jpierre@gannett.com

This article originally appeared on The Fayetteville Observer: Cumberland County Animal Services says rabies case confirmed in raccoon