Garner residents warned of rabies after three people exposed
GARNER, N.C. -- Wake County officials say three people and a dog were exposed to a rabid raccoon in the area of Wakeland Drive and Long Avenue in Garner.
"It is important that residents in Garner are informed of cases like these. Because these animals were unvaccinated, there is potential for exposure," said Sue Lynn Ledford, Community Health Director for Wake County.
Officials said the dog that was exposed was not vaccinated for rabies and state law requires potentially rabid pets to be destroyed unless owners agree to support a six-month quarantine.
"We encourage pet owners to comply with the North Carolina law and keep their pet's rabies vaccinations current, including their indoor pets," said Wake Animal Services Director Dr. Jennifer Federico. "If a pet is exposed to rabies and has up-to-date rabies vaccines, the pet can be taken to their veterinarian for a booster shot."
Officials said they're worried about possible exposure of unvaccinated pets in the Garner area. Anyone who sees an animal acting in an unusual manner should call Wake County Animal Control.
-In Wake County (except Cary, Garner, Holly Springs and Raleigh), call (919) 212-PETS (7387)
-In Cary, call (919) 319-4517
-In Garner, call (919) 772-8896
-In Holly Springs, call (919) 557-9111
-In Raleigh, call (919) 831-6311
If you see an animal acting in a suspicious way you should not approach it.
Officials said residents should ensure their pets have a current rabies vaccination. If a pet is allowed outside, a booster vaccine is recommended. Outdoor pets should be kept inside until they receive booster vaccines.
They also recommend:
-Do not feed stray or unknown animals, including cats and dogs.
-Do not leave trash or food outside, unless it is in a trash can with a tight-fitting lid.
-If a pet is fed outside, do not leave food out overnight.
-If a pet comes in contact with an animal that might be rabid, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Wake County has a rabies vaccination clinic set for Saturday, May 16 at Ashley Wilder Dog Park, Wilder Nursery Trail, Knightdale. Details can be found on the Wake County Animal Center website. During this clinic rabies vaccines will be available for $5 and microchips for $10.
For more information about rabies, visit http://www.wakegov.com/pets/health/rabies/Pages/default.aspx.
