Rabies confirmed in fox near U.S. 1 in Lee County

SANFORD - A third case of rabies has been reported in Lee County.

A fox found in the area west of U.S. 1 between Spring Lane and Carbonton Road has been confirmed to have rabies, according to a statement released Tuesday by Lee County officials.

Residents who see a stray or suspicious animal should not approach it, but report it to the Lee County Sheriff’s Animal Control Unit at 919-775-5531.

“Signs that an animal may be infected with rabies include loss of appetite, irritability and unusual aggression, lack of fear and restlessness, dilated pupils, seizures, trembling and unsteadiness, difficulty swallowing, and drooling or foaming at the mouth,” the statement said.

Animal Services officials say the best way to protect pets from rabies is to have them properly vaccinated for rabies. A rabies clinic hosted by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, the county Health Department, and Maple Springs Veterinary Clinic is planned for Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. The clinic will be outside of the Sheriff’s Office in the parking lot between Horner Boulevard and the office located at 1401 Elm Street in Sanford.

The cost for each vaccination is $7. Dogs must be on leashes, and cats and ferrets must be in cages.

Pet owners who want a three-year rabies vaccine for their animals should bring proof of previous rabies vaccinations for each pet receiving a shot.

Staff writer Steve DeVane can be reached at sdevane@fayobserver.com or 486-3572.