The North Carolina State Laboratory notified Caldwell County Animal Care Enforcement today (September 6) that a bat submitted for testing was infected with the rabies virus. The bat was found on Steeltown Road in Lenoir when it came into contact with two dogs. The incident marks the third confirmed rabies case in the county this year.

Caldwell County Animal Care Enforcement will host a rabies vaccine clinic on October 21. Vaccines will be free for Caldwell County Residents and $10 for non-county residents. Please ensure that all pets are on a leash or crated upon arrival at the event.

Anyone with questions concerning rabies or rabies vaccinations should contact Animal Care Enforcement at 828-572-4535. In an emergency, call the Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office at 828-758-2324.