Four Dogs Quarantined in Coward, SC, After Rabid Raccoon Encounter

News Summary

Four dogs in Coward, South Carolina, have been quarantined after interacting with a rabid raccoon. This incident marks the first rabies case in Florence County this year. Health officials emphasize the importance of vaccinations for pets to mitigate rabies risks. Pet owners are advised to stay informed about rabies exposure and contact local health authorities if they suspect any interaction with the raccoon. Fortunately, no humans have reported exposure, but the situation serves as a reminder to safeguard pets against rabies by keeping vaccinations up to date.

Four Dogs Quarantined in Coward, SC, After Rabid Raccoon Encounter

In a startling turn of events, four dogs in Coward, South Carolina, have been placed under quarantine following their exposure to a rabid raccoon. This unsettling news has sent ripples through the Pee Dee area, reminding pet owners of the ever-present risk of rabies.

Location of the Incident

The South Carolina Department of Public Health confirmed that the raccoon was discovered in the vicinity of Albany Road and Chester Road. After being submitted for testing on February 6, 2025, the poor creature was found to be positive for rabies just two days later. This incident marks the first confirmed case of rabies in Florence County this year, and the sixth case reported statewide.

What Happens Next for the Dogs?

The four dogs which were exposed to the rabid raccoon will undergo a mandatory quarantine as per the South Carolina Rabies Control Act. This precautionary measure is vital for ensuring the safety of the animals as well as the community. There has been a silver lining in this concerning episode, as local health officials assure residents that no humans have reported exposure to the raccoon.

The Importance of Vaccinations

With rabies being a serious matter, it’s crucial for pet owners to keep their pets up to date on their rabies vaccinations. The Rabies Program director has stressed this point, highlighting that any mammal has the potential to carry and transmit rabies. Whether it’s raccoons, skunks, foxes, or even bats, maintaining a safe distance from wild and stray animals can significantly decrease the risk of exposure.

What to Do If You’ve Encountered the Raccoon

If you happen to be someone who may have crossed paths with the raccoon or have pets that may have been in contact with it, it’s advised to get in touch with the DPH Conway office as soon as possible at 843-915-8801. Prompt action could be essential in preventing further spread or complications regarding rabies exposure.

A Look at Rabies in South Carolina

Rabies is most commonly found in wildlife in South Carolina, specifically in raccoons, skunks, foxes, and bats. However, it’s important to remember that pets are equally vulnerable to this deadly virus. Since 2002, South Carolina has seen an average of 144 positive rabies cases annually, with five out of the total 81 confirmed cases in 2025 occurring in Florence County alone.

Stay Informed and Safe

In light of this recent rabies case, it is a sensible reminder for everyone to stay informed regarding rabies and its potential dangers. Local public health offices can provide valuable information regarding rabies exposure or bites, so don’t hesitate to reach out for any concerns.

As we all navigate through this news, let’s keep our furry friends protected by prioritizing their vaccinations and staying informed. Remember, knowledge is our best defense against rabies!

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Additional Resources

• MSN News
• Wikipedia: Rabies
• Post and Courier
• Google Search: rabies exposure South Carolina
• Kingstree News
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Rabies
• WPDE News
• Google News: rabid raccoon Florence County