A raccoon found inside the Dothan city limits has tested positive for rabies.

The incident was reported on Bradberry Drive in Dothan just behind the BBQ Shack at the corner of Fortner Street and Brannon Stand Road. Officials are asking that all residents living in the area take precautions to protect themselves and their pets.

Health officials are warning residents to stay alert and make sure their pets are vaccinated.

Public Health Environmentalist Keith Hicks said, "The health department advises children not to handle a stray pet or unwanted animal. We do like to ask residents to have their pets vaccinated each year."

That annual rabies vaccine helps to not only protect your pets, but also to create a barrier between you and rabid animals.

Hicks said, "Your pets act as a buffer between the wild and humans so it is important to have your animals vaccinated annually."

While this does make the fourth confirmed case of rabies in the county, officials are not overly concerned.

"This is not an unusual amount,” says Hicks. “Usually rabies runs in cycles, some years it's not active and other years we have a high amount of the rabies virus."

In fact in 2008 Houston County had 13 confirmed cases of rabies so far this year only 4.

If you or your child is bitten by a rabid animal, officials say wash the wound with soap and water and seek medical attention immediately. You should also report the bite to your local health department or animal control officer.

Alabama state law requires that all dogs and cats three months of age and older be vaccinated against rabies.