3rd case of rabies confirmed in Catawba Co. after fight between fox, 2 dogs

CATAWBA COUNTY, N.C. — Catawba County Animal Services confirmed the county's third rabies case of the year.

Animal Services received a call Thursday, saying two dogs and a fox were involved in altercation in Claremont.

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Officials responded to the area and immediately sent the fox to the North Carolina Public Health Laboratory in Raleigh for testing.

Catawba County officials were notified Monday that the fox tested positive for rabies.

Signs that an animal may be infected with rabies:

• loss of appetite
• irritability and unusual aggression
• lack of fear and restlessness
• dilated pupils
• seizures
• trembling and unsteadiness
• difficulty swallowing
• drooling or foaming at the mouth

Officials said both dogs were current on their rabies vaccinations and Animal Services told their owner to make sure the dogs receive their booster vaccines.

Per state vaccination guidelines, animals current on their rabies vaccine should receive a booster within 96 hours of possible rabies exposure.

Officials said people who encounter an animal with any the symptoms should avoid contact and report it to Catawba County Animal Services at 828-464-7686.

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

Cox Media Group