Suspected case of rabies reported in Cumberland County

A test for rabies returned inconclusive results for a raccoon killed by three stray dogs on Horseshoe Road, between Yadkin and Summerhill roads in Fayetteville, spokeswoman Sally Shutt said. For public-safety reasons, though, it is treated as a positive case.

Residents in the area should be alert for any sick or abnormally acting animals, Shutt said.

They should also make sure their pets are vaccinated. Any pet that has been in fight outside should be handled cautiously and taken to a veterinarian.

Any person bitten or scratched by an animal should immediately wash the wound under running water for at least 10 minutes. Seek medical attention and advice, or go to the emergency room.

Notify Cumberland County Animal Services by calling 910-321-6852 Monday through Friday or the sheriff’s office at 919-323-1500 after-hours and on weekends and holidays.