Habersham County Environmental Health Director Marcus Hall has confirmed that a
raccoon that had contact with a dog in the Habersham Mills area has tested positive
for rabies and the dog was euthanized.
HABERSHAM CO. NEWSS RELEASE:
“Habersham County Animal Care and Control Director Madi Nix said a large, older
dog was bitten in the face Sept. 5 by the raccoon on Roberts Road.
The exposure was reported to officials on Sept. 6 and the animal was shipped for
testing at the state laboratory.
Results of that test have come back positive.
On the advice of a veterinarian, the exposed dog was euthanized with owner
consent at the vet’s office.
“We don’t believe this is a rabies outbreak,” Nix said. “As far as we know, this is the
only positive testing animal that had any contact with another.”
Nix said humans should avoid close contact with wildlife and not engage.
She reminds everyone that just because people see nocturnal animals out during
the day does not necessarily mean their sick.
“Mommas often are out working to feed their babies,” Nix said.
Residents who observe wildlife that appears to be sick but has had no contact
should contact the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.
Those who observe wildlife that appears to be sick and has had contact with a
human or domestic animal should call Habersham County Animal Care and Control
directly at (706) 839-0496. Animal control officers check that number frequently, so
leave a message and one will call back if there is no answer.
In all emergency situations, dial 9-1-1.”
Last week, officials in neighboring White County reported their first confirmed case of rabies in more than two years. EARLIER STORY. POSTED SEPT. 11: White Co. reports 1st rabies case in more than two years (wgtjradio.com)