A raccoon found in Chapel Hill tested positive for rabies last week at the State Laboratory of Public Health.

The raccoon was found dead in the yard of a home in the vicinity of Albert and Dairyland roads. The resident found the raccoon after discovering blood on one of her three dogs.

All three dogs were currently vaccinated against rabies and received rabies booster shots, which are required within 72 hours of exposure. Unvaccinated cats and dogs that are reasonably suspected of being exposed to rabies must either be destroyed or quarantined for six months.

In addition, because of the resident’s possible secondary exposure, an Orange County communicable disease nurse will work with the resident to determine if medical treatment is needed.

This is the first positive rabies test received by Orange County Animal Services in 2008. Last year, there were 19 positive rabies tests for the county. If any possible exposure to a bat, raccoon or fox is suspected, contact Animal Control at 245-2075 or call 911.