Confirmed Rabid Fox in Hart County is Third Rabies Confirmation for Our Area in a Month

A third confirmed case of rabies in a fox in our area has health officials reminding everyone to make sure their pets are vaccinated and to stay away from wild animals.

In August, a rabid fox was confirmed in Stephens County on August 9 near the area of Falls Road and North Broad St.

Then on August 21, District Two Public Health officials said a confirmed case of rabies was found in a fox in Lavonia that was discovered in the area of Vickery St. near downtown.

And on August 28, Hart County Sheriff Mike Cleveland said the fox came on a man’s property and bit a woman, and that fox turned out to be rabid as well.

Franklin County Environmental Health Director Louis Korff emphasizes the best way to prevent being bitten by a fox or any wild animal is to stay away from them, especially if they appear to be acting strangely.

“I assure you there are rabid animals out in those woods. We saw this one and there’s no telling how many we don’t see. So, stay away from wild animals, don’t feed your pets outside, and call me if you have any concerns with the wild animals you do see,” Korff advised.

Health officials also advise pet owners to make sure their pets are vaccinated against rabies every year.

A number of low-cost rabies clinics are offered every year in Franklin and Hart counties, by both the local health departments and private rescue groups.

The Northeast Georgia Animal Shelter will be offering $5 rabies vaccines and $7 distemper vaccines for pets next month at their fall rabies clinic. You can go online to their Facebook page for more details.

Also, Tractor Supply offers low-cost vaccines and microchipping at their store locations once a month.

You can check with your local Tractor Supply for dates and times.