Lincoln County Animal Services has confirmed the county’s ninth rabies case of 2025. On Monday, August 25th, a resident called Animal Services regarding a raccoon that was exhibiting signs of neurological illness near Reepsville Road and Seagletown Road.
The raccoon was found eating food out of a trough alongside a herd of cattle. The raccoon was dispatched and submitted to the North Carolina State Laboratory for rabies testing. There was no known exposure to domesticated pets or humans. On Thursday, August 28th, Lincoln County Animal Services received confirmation of a positive rabies test for the raccoon. The case has been passed on to North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services for further investigation regarding exposure and quarantine protocols for the cattle.
We recommend all pet owners ensure their indoor pets, outdoor pets, ferrets and livestock are kept current on their rabies vaccine and take advantage of vaccination opportunities through Lincoln County Animal Services and low-cost clinics sponsored by Helping Animals to Survive (HATS). Lincoln County residents may schedule an appointment with Lincoln County Animal Services to receive a 1-year rabies vaccination for $10 per pet (felines and canines only). To keep yourself safe, don’t approach or handle wildlife. Signs of rabies in wild animals can 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 Animal Services at (704) 736-4125 to report it.
Resources for rabies vaccinations:
Lincoln County Animal Services will be hosting a free rabies vaccination clinic on Saturday, October 4th while supplies last. The event will start at 9 a.m. and is available to Lincoln County residents only. The event will be held at the Lincoln County Health Department located at 200 Gamble Drive, Lincolnton.
Lincoln County Animal Services: https://www.lincolncountync.gov/702/Animal-Services
Helping Animals To Survive (HATS): https://www.hatsalive.org/calendar-2/