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Health Department Still Seeks Three Females Seen in Green/Tan F-150 at State Farm Kangaroo Last Week

By Jesse Wood

July 19, 2012. The Appalachian District Health Department is still seeking three females that were seen dropping off a thin brown and black striped cat at the Kangaroo gas station on State Farm Road on Thursday, July 12, at 4:30 p.m.

The three females were riding in green and tan Ford F-150. The cat ended up inside someone’s vehicle and that person immediately brought the cat to the Watauga Humane Society, where it became sick and subsequently tested positive for rabies, according to Jennifer Greene, director of Allied Health Services with the Appalachian District Health Department.

“We are continuing to put the message out. We have not had anyone come in and indicate that they are connected with the [three females and/or cat]. If anyone knows anyone who might be connect. It’s very important,” Bryan said.

She added that without knowing where the females are from, it’s impossible to know who has been in contact with this cat and where the cat lived.

Even though this is an unfortunate event, Greene said, “Hopefully, this will bring awareness for people to be cautious with strange animals.”

According to a press release sent out by ADHD a few days ago, “Rabies is a terrible, but preventable disease, and contact with stray animals may put you and your family at risk. If you determine there is a stray animal in your area, contact your animal control for further guidance. It’s best to be cautious and avoid direct contact with stray animals. Even when a pet may look healthy, the risk of rabies may still exist. Please spay and neuter your pets and keep their rabies vaccination up to date.

It is critical that these three individuals, and anyone else who may have come in contact with this animal between the dates of June 29, 2012, to July 15, 2012, contact the Watauga County Health Department immediately for a rabies risk-assessment at 828-264-4995.”