Another positive rabies case has been confirmed in Orange County, making the overall count of rabies incidents in the area to ten. 

Bob Marotto animal services director for Orange County says this incident involved a raccoon and because raccoons are the primary species that carry rabies in this area, residents should take precautions when encountering a raccoon.

Last Thursday a resident in the vicinity of Hatch Road and Brookfield Drive encountered a deceased raccoon in his yard.  The resident then called animal control to remove it.  Fortunately, the resident’s dogs had not been in contact with the raccoon and were currently vaccinated against rabies. 

As with any positive test result, this case underscores the importance of vaccinating pets.  Should your pet come in contact with a potential rabid animal Marotto says it’s important to make sure the correct steps are taken.   

Residents that have animals currently vaccinated must receive a booster shot within 72 hours of encountering a rabid animal.