Orange County Animal Services reports higher intake, clinic revenue exceeds expectations; issues rabies advisory after fox attacks

Orange County Animal Services staff told the advisory board on May 20 that shelter intake is up from last year and that the department has issued public guidance after several fox attacks and multiple rabies-positive cases.

Elizabeth Overcash reported 29 dogs and 42 cats currently in shelter care and about 22 dogs and approximately 100 cats in foster care, including foster-to-adopt and standard fosters. She said foster recruitment is ongoing, with extra outreach for animals with ringworm, and that intake numbers are tracking higher year over year. Overcash also said Orange County continues to provide assistance to shelters in Rocky Mount, Caswell, Chatham, and Nash counties.

On clinic finances, Christina Allen reported year-to-date clinic revenue of $74,000. Donations have exceeded budget projections, reaching approximately $37,000 against a $35,000 budgeted figure, with about six weeks remaining in the fiscal year.

Staff discussed recent daytime fox attacks that resulted in two bite incidents and two additional attacks; the fox was not captured and is presumed deceased if rabid. Overcash said the county issued a public communication advising residents to keep children and pets indoors. She reported five rabies-positive cases have been identified this year. Board members commended staff for timely public-relations efforts and communication.

Overcash also reported the recent shelter auction raised approximately $10,000 and described a new committee of staff and volunteer mentors forming to manage donors and plan next year’s annual event. She noted simplifying online donations would require coordination with county finance, legal, and IT staff.

The board did not take formal votes on operational items at this meeting; members asked staff to continue recruitment and public outreach and to report back as appropriate.