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Rabid fox found in Cary

On Tuesday, a homeowner in the 300 block of Vintage Hill Circle contacted Cary Animal Control to report that two dogs had chased a fox under his deck.

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CARY, N.C. — The Town of Cary has reported its first case of rabies this year, animal control officials said Thursday.

On Tuesday, a homeowner in the 300 block of Vintage Hill Circle contacted Cary Animal Control to report that two dogs had chased a fox under his deck.

Police responded and transported the dead fox for testing at the State Laboratory of Public Health in Raleigh. The town was notified Thursday that the fox was infected with the rabies virus.

While the dogs didn’t appear to be injured, officials are checking their vaccination status and taking any necessary precautions, officials said.

The last reported case of rabies in Cary was in September 2009.

If you see a potentially rabid animal

Whenever a person is bitten or scratched by an unknown animal, they should thoroughly clean the wound with soap and warm water, and contact their physician or county health department immediately.

Animal control officials urge the following:

  • Avoid interactions with wildlife.
  • Be sure pets are current with rabies vaccinations.
  • 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.
  • Do not leave pets outdoors unattended.
  • If your pet comes in contact with wildlife, contact your veterinarian immediately.

To report animal complaints and stray animals:

  • In Wake County (except Cary, Garner, Holly Springs and Raleigh), call 212-PETS (7387)
  • In Cary, call 319-4517
  • In Garner, call 772-8896
  • In Holly Springs, call 557-9111
  • In Raleigh, call 831-6311
  • In Cumberland County, call 910-321-6852 Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Call the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office at 910-323-1500 after 5 p.m., weekends and holidays.
More information on rabies can be found online through the N.C. Division of Public Health.

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