A raccoon killed by a dog in Gastonia has tested positive for rabies, marking the third confirmed rabies case in Gaston County this year, police said.

Another dog killed a raccoon with rabies in Gaston County on Sunday, police announced on Tuesday. The rabies case marks the county’s third of 2025 and is the second time in just two weeks that a dog has killed a rabid raccoon in Gastonia.

Officials stress importance of having pets vaccinated for rabies. In this case the dog was current on its vaccination and received a booster shot.

Health officials are urging Chesapeake residents to ensure all pets and livestock are current on rabies vaccinations.