On November 18, 2009 officials at the State Diagnostic Lab in Raleigh confirmed a positive case of rabies in a dog in Henderson County. On November 16, 2009 a man was bitten in the Hebron Road area. Following the incident the dog was detained immediately and submitted for testing. Additionally the family is currently undergoing post exposure rabies shots. 

North Carolina law requires that all dogs and cats be vaccinated against rabies after 4 months of age, whether the animal resides indoors or outdoors.  

Selena Coffey, Assistant County Manager, said, "It is important that pet owners understand the consequences of allowing their pets to go unvaccinated. Unfortunately, some folks don't realize that their indoor pets are equally susceptible to rabies when they are only allowed outdoors for brief periods of time. Henderson County takes community outreach very seriously, especially involving rabies vaccinations or other concerns that could result in public health safety ..

Animal Services will be holding a local rabies clinic for residents of the Hebron area. The clinic will be held at Jones Gap Baptist Church at 3007 Hebron Road on Monday, November 23, 2009 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. If you reside in this area and have a pet that is unvaccinated or you think may have been exposed, please attend the clinic and get your pet innoculated. Make sure to leash all dogs and have cats in carriers. The cost for the vaccination is $7.

Brad Rayfield, Director of Animal Services states, This unfortunate incident demonstrates the importance of keeping animals vaccinated against rabies. It is important for pet owners to keep their animals up to date on their rabies vaccination in order to create a buffer between wildlife and humans.

Please take the following precautions to protect you and your family from contact with the rabies virus:

1.     Do not approach any animal unknown to you or your family. 2.   Don't try to touch or pet wild or stray animals. 3.     Secure trash in garbage cans with tight fitting lids.  4.     Feed and water your pets inside your home to avoid attracting wild animals.

For more information on rabies or rabies vaccination clinics, please contact the Animal Services Department at 697-4723.