Bobcat, raccoon test positive for rabies

A bobcat found near the Jackson-Hall county line near Gillsville and a raccoon in the Whitney Trace area of Braselton both tested positive for rabies, according to officials.

The bobcat marks the first confirmed rabies case in a bobcat in Hall County and the first confirmed rabies case for 2012 in the county.

The bobcat made contact between two dogs in the Bryant Quarter Road area. The two dogs were up to date on their vaccinations. Hall County Animal Services was alerted on Wednesday, Jan. 25, that the bobcat tested positive for rabies.

In Braselton, two dogs came in contact with a raccoon and are being quarantined for a short period of time, Jackson County officials announced this week. Whitney Trace is located off Ednaville Road.

Animal owners are encouraged to vaccinate their domesticated pets for rabies. Vaccines are available at the Hall County Animal Shelter for $10 Tuesdays through Fridays, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at 1688 Barber Rd, Gainesville.

Residents are asked to avoid any wild animal showing unusual behavior, such as aggression, lack of fear of people, or appearance during odd times of the day.