By Coastal Carolina News Staff Writer
August 31, 2026
Regional: State health officials have confirmed rabies in four baby goats from a traveling mobile petting zoo, prompting a multi‑county advisory in central and western North Carolina. No exposures have been reported in Columbus, Brunswick, or Horry counties, and the infected animals did not travel to southeastern North Carolina.
The goats belonged to Farm Adventures Mobile Petting Zoo, which transports animals to public events. All four goats were euthanized after testing confirmed rabies. Investigators believe a rabid skunk entered their enclosure in late July, exposing the animals before they were taken to events throughout August.
The loss of the young goats was deeply unfortunate, and with no NC licensed rabies vaccine available for goats – especially animals this young – the exposure was something the owner could not have prevented.
In a public statement, Misty Love stated, “These goats are my life, my animals are my life.” Love is the owner of Farm Adventures Mobile Petting Zoo in Iredell County, NC.
North Carolina law requires rabies vaccination only for dogs, cats, and ferrets starting at four months of age, meaning livestock such as goats are not legally covered. Furthermore, no USDA-licensed rabies vaccine is manufactured for very young goats. Despite this, national public health guidelines recommend vaccinating livestock—particularly those in public-facing environments—whenever a suitable vaccine option is available.
Exposure notices were issued for events in Mecklenburg, Iredell, Watauga, Burke, Davie, and Durham counties. These are the only counties identified in the investigation. No events involving the infected goats occurred in Columbus County, Brunswick County, or Horry County.
Rabies remains present in wildlife statewide, with skunks, raccoons, foxes, and bats representing the most common carriers. Residents are advised to avoid contact with wild animals, keep pets current on rabies vaccinations, and report suspected exposures to local health departments.
Individuals who had direct contact with the goats between July 28 and Aug. 27 , 2026 in the listed counties during the advisory window should consult their local health department for evaluation.
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