Rabid raccoon found in southwest Raleigh

Health officials said Tuesday that the raccoon was found near the intersection of Beehnon Way and Tryon Pines Drive, off Tryon Road. It was taken to a state lab, where it tested positive for the disease. 

Officials did not say whether the raccoon was dead or alive. 

"We don't want to alarm residents in Raleigh, but they should be aware of these cases and of the potential for exposure to themselves, family members and their pets," Sue Lynn Ledford, community health director for Wake County, said in a statement. “Do not approach an animal that you don’t know.”

Residents are encouraged not to approach animals they do not know or that are acting strangely and ensure their pets have a current rabies vaccination.

Officials will hold a rabies vaccination and microchip clinic Saturday at the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles office at 1100 New Bern Ave. During the clinic, which runs from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., vaccines will be available for $5, and microchips will be available for $10.

To report animal complaints and stray animals: