A stray feral cat from the 500 block of Willie Gray Road in Timberlake has tested positive for rabies, becoming the first confirmed case in Person County this year.

Because rabies can be fatal if left untreated, public health officials remind residents to vaccinate their pets to protect both the animals and the humans with whom they have contact. Teach children to stay away from wild, stray, or aggressive animals and never feed or touch wild animals or try to keep them as pets. Also, ensure trash cans have secure lids to prevent wildlife from foraging for food, and do not leave pet food outside. Many animals are also attracted to birdseed.

If you see wildlife behaving strangely, especially nocturnal animals such as skunks and raccoons found during daylight hours, do not approach the animal. Instead, call 336-597-0545 and speak to the Animal Control Officer on call.

If you are bitten by an animal, wash the wound immediately with soap and water and seek medical attention. All bites should be reported to the Person County Animal Services or the local health department.

Person County Animal Services provides rabies vaccinations at its facility, 2103 Chub Lake Road, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and some Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Visit their website at www.personcountync.gov/animalservices or call 336-597-1741 for weekend and holiday hours.

On Saturday, November 2, from 9 to 11 a.m. at Palace Pointe, one-year and three-year vaccines will be available. For more information, call 336-597-1741.