2 more cases of rabies seen as dogs attack infected animals

Thursday, Feb. 22, 2007

By Marcie Young
Charlotte Observer Staff Writer

Officials in Catawba County confirmed the second and third cases of rabies this year after two dogs attacked infected animals in Vale and Conover last week.

One dog attacked and killed a rabid skunk in Vale on Feb. 13, said Catawba County animal services manager Joaine McKeel. The dog had not been vaccinated, so it was euthanized.

Another dog in Conover attacked a raccoon Feb. 14, and the dog's owner was scratched while trying to beat the raccoon off his pet, McKeel said.

He told authorities that he was unsure whether the scratch came from the raccoon or the dog and was treated by a doctor. The dog had been vaccinated and received booster shots after the attack.

The raccoon and skunk were sent to the state health lab in Raleigh, where technicians confirmed Monday that both animals had rabies, McKeel said.


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