At Least One Dog Contracted Rabies From Bobcat in Florence Area

Animal owners in Florence beware after DHEC confirmed a bobcat in the area has tested positive for rabies. The animal was found near Jefferson Drive and South Cashua Street and confirmed to be infected over the weekend. So far no humans have been exposed but one dog has and will now have quarantine which is required under the South Carolina Rabies Control Act. If your pet appears to have been exposed, or has sustained a suspicious scratch or wound, you’re asked to contact DHEC offices. You can call their Environmental Affairs Florence office at 843-661-4825 during normal business hours which are between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. If you’d like to report a bite or exposure outside of those hours, you can call DHEC at 888-847-0902.