Rabid Raccoon Reported In Northwest Charlotte

CHARLOTTE, NC — Animal control officials are urging pet owners to verify their animals have up-to-date rabies vaccinations after a rabid raccoon came in contact with two pet dogs in northwest Charlotte.

The racoon that tested positive for rabies was found earlier this week near Marengo Circle n the Mountain Island area, south of Historic Latta Plantation, according to WBTV.

Both pets that came in contact with the racoon were current on their vaccinations, according to Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Animal Care and Control, which reminded pet owners that all dogs, cats and ferrets must be vaccinated by four months.

According to The Charlotte Observer, Mecklenburg County has reported confirmed rabies cases in 140 racoons, 24 foxes and 33 bats in the past 10 years.

Animal Care and Control offers free rabies vaccinations once a month at the animal shelter located at 8315 Byrum Drive in Charlotte on the second Saturday of each month. The clinic hours are 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.

SEE ALSO: Huntersville Family's Car Attacked By 'Rabid' Coyote

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