Rabid Goats: NC Petting Zoo Issues Health Alert

Four young goats from a North Carolina mobile petting zoo, Farm Adventures, have been euthanized after testing positive for rabies. The incident occurred at the zoo's Harmony, North Carolina location and at various mobile events. Health authorities are now contacting individuals who had contact with the baby goats between July 28 and August 29, 2026.

Officials emphasize the importance of prompt medical evaluation for anyone potentially exposed, as rabies is nearly always fatal in humans without treatment. The affected goats were too young for vaccination and were reportedly bitten by a skunk in their enclosure. The petting zoo stated they were unaware of the bites until after the first goat's death, prompting testing.

Skunks are a common carrier of rabies. Rabies can spread to humans through bites, scratches, or infected saliva from animals or even other humans. Symptoms can take weeks to appear. North Carolina has not reported a human rabies case since 2011, though approximately 100,000 Americans annually receive post-exposure vaccines.