Health Department Confirms Fourth Rabies Case
Unvaccinated puppy attacked by fox
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 17, 2010
BURLINGTON The North Carolina State Laboratory of Public Health in Raleigh has confirmed Alamance Countys fourth rabies for the year. On Saturday, a fox attacked a puppy at a residence on Willard Road in Snow Camp. The fox was killed, taken to a local veterinary office, and was later picked up for testing by the animal control division of the Alamance County Sherriffs Office. The owner has not yet decided whether to euthanize or place the puppy on mandatory six month quarantine.
We continue to be troubled over a growing trend of owners failing to keep vaccinations up to date, said Barry Bass, health director for Alamance County. All of Alamance Countys rabies cases thus far, have unfortunately resulted in family pets being quarantined or euthanized. Keeping a family pets vaccinations up-to-date is just as important as feeding, sheltering, and seeking medical care, Bass concluded. According to North Carolina General Statute 130A 185, the owner of every dog and cat over four months of age shall have the animal vaccinated against rabies.
The first rabies shot given to a dog or cat is good for one year. Booster shots received thereafter are good for three years. Any lapse could not only endanger the pet, if bitten by a rabid animal, but also any humans that may come into contact with the pet.
For more information regarding low-cost rabies vaccination providers or upcoming rabies clinics in the county may contact the Alamance County Health Departments Environmental Health division at (336) 570-6367.