Skunk discovered in Tryon tests positive for rabies

Animal Control to host vaccination clinic Sept. 21

TRYON—On Friday, September 6, Polk County Animal Control recovered the remains of a deceased skunk in the vicinity of Hogback Mountain Rd. in Tryon that later tested positive for rabies.

Officials say the skunk had been observed attacking a dog in the area. Animal Control sent the skunk’s remains to the North Carolina State Lab, where they tested positive.

“Rabies can lead to severe health outcomes for both humans and animals,” said Polk County Health and Human Services Agency Director Joshua Kennedy. “We appreciate the efforts of Polk County Animal Control and community members in reporting the incident.”

Residents on Hogback Mountain Rd. are encouraged to contact animal control if they notice unusual behavior in any animals.

“Rabies in animals is preventable through routine vaccination efforts,” says Animal Control Officer Patti Lovelace. “In addition to your local veterinarian, the Polk County Animal Control hosts routine vaccination clinics for the public and their pets, and we encourage pet owners to take advantage of the opportunity.”

Polk County Animal Control will host a rabies vaccination clinic on Saturday, September 21, from 11 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Harmon Field in the Air Gym. Pets can also be taken to Foothills Humane Society by appointment to get a rabies vaccine at a reduced cost.

Anyone observing a wild animal or pet displaying symptoms of rabies should call Polk County Animal Control at 828-894-3001.

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