A raccoon and a skunk found in Orange County last week tested positive for rabies at the State Laboratory of Public Health.

The raccoon was found dead in a yard near Mill Creek Road and High Rock Road in Mebane after the resident discovered that one of his two dogs’ ears was bleeding. Although the dogs were current on their rabies vaccinations, they had to receive rabies booster shots, which is required within 72 hours of suspected rabies exposure.

The skunk was found running around a yard in northern Orange County near Highway 57 and Highway 157. The resident trapped the skunk in a cat carrier and submitted it to animal control because of possible contact with her three cats and three dogs, which received rabies booster shots.

So far this year, Orange County Animal Services has received 18 positive rabies tests. Public health officials believe the state is on the upside of a raccoon rabies cycle. If any possible exposure to a raccoon, fox or bat is suspected, contact Animal Control at 245-2075 or call 911.