Rabid Raccoon Attacks 2 Dogs In Southeast Charlotte

CHARLOTTE, NC — Animal control officials are urging pet owners to verify their animals have up-to-date rabies vaccinations after a rabid raccoon came in contact with two pet dogs in southeast Charlotte this week. The incident marks the fifth animal to test positive for rabies in Mecklenburg County this year, they say.

According to a statement issued by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Animal Care and Control, the rabid raccoon entered a yard in the Mint Hill area June 11, where it was attacked by two pet dogs. Both dogs were current on their rabies vaccinations and received a booster within 96 hours of exposure.

SEE ALSO: Huntersville Family's Car Attacked By 'Rabid' Coyote

ACC said the incident is a reminder that pet owners need to keep rabies vaccinations up-to-date, and that by state law, all dogs, cats and ferrets must be vaccinated by four months of age.

Animal Care and Control offers free rabies vaccinations once a month at the animal shelter located at 8315 Byrum Drive in Charlotte on the second Saturday of each month. The clinic hours are 8 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.