The first positive rabies case this year in Gloucester County was recently confirmed, according to M.B. Sheppard, environmental health supervisor for the local health department and Three Rivers Health District.

A raccoon was tested for rabies after an incident in the Mark Pine Road area of Hayes, Sheppard said Monday.

Three dogs were exposed as a result of the raccoon wandering into the boundary area of their “invisible fence,” making contact with the dogs on Feb. 13.

One dog was current on its rabies vaccination, Sheppard said; it will receive a booster shot and be placed under 45-day observation. Meanwhile, the other two dogs did not have current vaccinations, Sheppard said, and will be placed in strict isolation for a six-month period.

“All pet owners are urged to maintain current vaccinations for their pets,” Sheppard said.

To prevent attracting wild animals to a yard, residents should keep trash receptacles covered and not leave pet food outside, he s...