A bat tested positive for rabies last Sunday after two dogs found it in a family’s home.

According to Orange County Animal Services, this the 19th positive rabies in the county so far this year – up significantly from 2012 and 2013.

Animal Services director Bob Marotto visited WCHL last week and spoke on the air with Aaron Keck.

Fortunately in this case, there was no direct contact between the dogs and the bat, and both dogs were already vaccinated against rabies. Per state law, they’ll receive a booster shot as a precaution.

Raccoons are the major source of rabies in North Carolina, but bats can actually pose a greater risk to humans because their bites can go undetected.

Click here for dates, times, and information on upcoming rabies clinics.

If you find you may have come into contact with a bat, contain the bat if possible and call Animal Services immediately at 919-942-PETS.