One of My Biggest Fears

North Carolina Petting Zoo Rabies Incident

The presenter recounts an incident involving a mobile petting zoo in North Carolina that heightened his longstanding fear of rabies. He explains that rabies can spread when infected saliva enters the body through a bite, scratch, or broken skin. Once symptoms appear, the disease is almost always fatal, but prompt post-exposure treatment can prevent it. Treatment involves multiple vaccine doses.

The Incident

According to the account, a rabid skunk entered Farm Adventures’ goat enclosure on July 27 and infected goats that were too young to be vaccinated. The zoo continued taking the goats to events—including nursing homes, public gatherings, and private functions—before the exposure was publicly disclosed.

Three of the four goats reportedly tested positive for rabies; another became ill and was euthanized. Health officials traced the zoo’s stops and urged anyone who may have had contact with the animals to seek advice about treatment.

Exposure and Criticism

The presenter estimates that roughly 200–300 people may have been exposed, though he says the figures vary. He reports that around 22 people received rabies shots. One person described difficult reactions and ongoing treatment.

He criticizes Farm Adventures’ decision to keep using the goats after the skunk incident, arguing that the zoo could have left them at home and continued events with other animals. He says he does not believe the exposure was intentional, but calls the decision a serious failure of judgment that put people at risk.

Presenter

Charlie (penguinz0 / MoistCr1TiKaL)