Officials confirm rabies in Demorest raccoon

CLARKESVILLE - Habersham County is dealing with its second confirmed rabies case of the year.

Habersham County Animal Care and Control Director Madi Hawkins released the information Thursday.

Hawkins said her personnel received a message the night of Feb. 26 that a dog abandoned earlier that week on Holly Street in Demorest had come into contact with and killed a raccoon.

The dog and deceased raccoon were picked up so the raccoon could be tested for rabies.

"Confirmation that the raccoon tested positive for rabies was received from the health department late afternoon Thursday, March 5," Hawkins said. "The dog had to be euthanized due to no knowledge by its owner as to vaccination status."

Hawkins reminds residents they can contact Habersham County Animal Care and Control for a schedule of upcoming vaccination clinics.