Details about rabid raccoon found in Gaston County

A rabid raccoon was discovered in Gaston County recently thanks to two family dogs. 

Gaston County Police Animal Care and Enforcement were called to the 1300 block of Dumbarton Road around 7 a.m. Wednesday. 

The two dogs had attacked a raccoon. 

The raccoon was impounded and sent for testing. Test results sent on Friday indicated that the raccoon was rabid. 

Both family dogs were current on their rabies vaccinations and received booster shots.  

Enforcement specialists completed a neighborhood canvass in the area of Dumbarton Road to notify the community of the positive rabies results. 

Gaston County Animal Care and Enforcement also notified Gaston County Department Health and Human Services about the incident.  

The Gaston County Police Department Animal Care and Enforcement Division stresses the importance of having a valid rabies vaccination for all pet’s health and safety, as well as the health and safety of their owners and community. 

This represents the second confirmed rabies case in Gaston County this year.