LINCOLNTON––Lincoln County’s second case of rabies for the year thus far has been confirmed.

According to Lincoln County Public Affairs Officer Vanessa León on Thursday, a suspicious skunk was observed Monday. It had potential signs of neurological issues prior to being killed by a dog in the area of Country Club Road. The skunk’s carcass was submitted to the North Carolina State Laboratory of Public Health for rabies testing on Tuesday. And also on Thursday, Lincoln County Animal Services received confirmation of a positive rabies test for the skunk.

“We recommend all pet-owners ensure their indoor and outdoor animals are kept current on their rabies vaccines and take advantage of vaccination opportunities through Lincoln County Animal Services and low-cost clinics sponsored by Helping Animals to Survive (or HATS),” said León. “Lincoln County residents may schedule appointments with Lincoln County Animal Services to receive a one-year rabies vaccination for $7 per pet. To keep yourself safe, don’t approach or handle wildlife.”

She continued that signs of rabies in wild animals may include abnormal amounts of aggression or friendliness, disorientation, wobbliness, circling and excessive salivation. If you see or encounter a wild animal that may be sick or is exhibiting signs of abnormal behavior, call Lincoln County Animal Services at (704) 736-4125 to report it.

To learn more about rabies vaccinations, consult the County Website at www.lincolncountync.gov/702/animal-services and the Helping Animals to Survive Website at www.hatsalive.org.