NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 8, 1997

THIRD CASE OF RABIES THIS YEAR REPORTED IN CARY

CARY --Town of Cary Animal Control confirms that a another case of rabies has been reported in Cary. The incident occurred on Thursday, September 4, 1997, when a dog in a fenced backyard on Greenwood Circle in central Cary was being harassed by a wild raccoon. The raccoon was captured by Cary officials and tested in Raleigh. The Town was notified over the weekend that the raccoon was infected with the rabies virus. The dog, which had been vaccinated against the disease, has received a booster shot.

"Fortunately, this dog was current on its vaccinations," said Lt. Pat Scaringelli of the Cary Police Department. "It is so important that citizens guard against this disease by taking proper care of their pets," she added. This is the third case of rabies to be reported in Cary this year and the tenth confirmed case in the last two years.

State law requires that all dogs and cats 4 months and older be vaccinated against rabies and that they display their vaccination tags at all times. Tags are also helpful in identifying and locating lost pets. Because the initial rabies vaccination lasts for one (1) year, dogs and cats receiving their first vaccination this year will need to be vaccinated again in 1998. For dogs and cats that were previously vaccinated, subsequent vaccinations are good for three (3) years, but proof of vaccination must be able to be shown.

Pet owners must use caution when dealing with any pet that may have been harmed by a suspicious animal. Wear gloves and other protective clothing when helping your injured pet, and stay away from any bodily fluids, especially saliva. As always, avoid any wild animal and have all pets--cats, dogs, and horses-- vaccinated against the disease. Seek help immediately if you or your pets are bitten by any animal, and notify officials as soon as possible.

PRIMARY CONTACTS: Lt. Pat Scaringelli, Cary Police, 460-4919

Bill Coleman, Town Manager, 469-4002

Susan Moran, Public Information Officer, 460-4951

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