Granville County Animal Control reports the pickup of two wild animals in the past several days which tested positive for rabies.
The first case involved the pickup of a raccoon on Nov. 1 near the intersection of Tump Wilkins Road and Piney Creek Lane. Once the rabies test was confirmed, notices were provided to residents of that area. While there was no exposure to people in this incident, there are feral cats located in this vicinity. Animal Control has been coordinating with Granville Vance Public Health and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services to determine actions to be taken regarding the feral cats in that area, as well as their possible exposure.
The second rabies case (skunk) was reported on Nov. 6, with the animal being collected near the intersection of Old Roxboro Road and Walnut Creek Road in Oxford. Animal Control officers have provided notices to nearby residents about this incident.
According to Granville County’s Animal Management Director Matt Katz, a dozen confirmed rabid animals have been reported so far this year.
North Carolina law (NCGS 130-A-185) requires that all owned dogs, cats and ferrets be vaccinated for rabies by four months of age, and that all rabies vaccinations be kept current. Katz offers a reminder that the Granville County Animal Shelter provides one-year rabies vaccinations for only $6, and that one shot is not enough. If any pet owner is unsure as to when their animals need rabies booster shots, they are asked to contact their local veterinarian. Residents are also urged to stay away from wild animals, as they may be rabid or carry additional diseases.
The Granville County Animal Shelter is located at 5650 Cornwall Road in Oxford and is open to administer rabies vaccines Monday through Friday from noon until 4:30 p.m. For more information, call the Shelter at 919-693-6749.