The number of confirmed rabies cases in Hall County this year has climbed to 23.

The most recent incident occurred Monday near Shadow Oaks Drive in North Hall, when a raccoon came in contact with two pet dogs. Thursday, the Georgia Public Health Lab verified that the raccoon was infected with rabies.

"Thank goodness (the dogs) were vaccinated," said Rick Aiken, president of the Humane Society of Hall County.

Pets who encounter a rabid animal and are not current on their rabies vaccinations must be either euthanized or placed in strict, long-term quarantine.

Aiken said in a normal year, Hall has six to eight confirmed cases of rabies. Officials have been at a loss to explain why there are so many cases this year.

Anyone who sees an animal behaving strangely is urged to call Hall County Animal Control at 770-531-6830.

The Humane Society will offer another rabies vaccination clinic from 8:30 a.m. to noon June 14 at the Hall County Animal Shelter, 845 W. Ridge Road.

Shots cost $10, Dogs and cats must be at least 3 months old and restrained in carriers or on leashes.

For more information, call the Humane Society at 770-532-6617.