Three dogs euthanized in Knightdale after rabies exposure

Animal control officers picked up one of the dogs after a resident reported the pup had interacted with the raccoon in the 4800 block of Clifton Road. The dog, which was not vaccinated, tested positive for rabies.

Two other dogs that lived in the same household also were put down because they were not vaccinated, officials said. State law requires potentially rabid pets to be destroyed unless owners agree to a six-month quarantine.

"We don't want to alarm residents in Knightdale, but they should be aware of these cases and of the potential for exposure to themselves, family members and their pets," Sue Lynn Ledford, county community health director, said in a statement. “Rabies vaccination is critical to help to prevent the spread of disease, and rabies vaccination is required by law. This is a great opportunity to remind everyone of the importance of rabies vaccinations for their pets.”

The county is hosting a rabies clinic and animal health fair from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at the Wake County Animal Shelter, 820 Beacon Lake Drive. Free rabies vaccinations will be offered, but the supply is limited.