Rabid fox found in Cumberland County

The fox was the third rabid animal found in a week in the county and the 10th since Jan. 1.

Officials said nine dogs belonging to neighboring family members encountered the fox Tuesday off Crittercreek Road, in the Gray’s Creek area. The dogs attacked and killed the fox, which was picked up by animal control officers and sent to the State Public Health Lab in Raleigh for testing.

The nine dogs were not vaccinated against rabies. State law requires the pets be euthanized or quarantined for six months. A spokeswoman with the county health department said Wednesday the dogs’ owners had not made a decision on the fate of their pets.

Officials are urging all pet owners to make sure their pets have a current rabies vaccination. Pet owners could face a $100 fine for each unvaccinated dog or cat.

Residents are advised to stay away from wild animals and stray dogs and cats, and call authorities immediately if they suspect an animal is rabid.