Rabid bat found in Cary home

Officials said John Rigsbee, who lives in the 300 block of Tweed Circle, reported finding the bat dead in his home Tuesday. Rigsbee said Thursday he put the bat in a jar after discovering it in his home. 

"My wife looks down and sees a dead bat laying in the floor next to the bed," he said. 

The animal was taken for testing at the State Laboratory of Public Health in Raleigh, which notified the town Wednesday of the positive test result.

Rigsbee said he and his wife have to get two weeks of shots to protect against possible infection.

Daniel Glover, a wildlife damage control agent in Raleigh, said August is a prime time for people to notice bats inside their homes because it's maternity season.

"Once the babies are actually able to take flight, they will start flying around and get confused and find entry holes where there is a light fixture or whatever," he said.

In March, Cary reported its first case of rabies after three dogs were exposed to a rabid raccoon. The owner chose to have the dogs euthanized since they were not current on their vaccinations.

Residents are reminded to use caution when dealing with animals that are behaving unusually or with pets that may have come into contact with rabid animals. 

Wear gloves and other protective clothing when helping injured pets, and stay away from bodily fluids, especially saliva. Officials also urge residents to have their pets vaccinated against the disease.

Anyone who may have come into contact with a rabid animal or finds a wild animal indoors should call local animal control authorities immediately.