Vaccination support extends to Baie Verte Peninsula

The provincial government is extending its support of rabies vaccinations for pets to the Baie Verte Peninsula. Provincial veterinarian Dr. Hugh Whitney said support for clinics in the area is due to the confirmation of rabies in a fox from the Jackson�s Arm area in late January.

Dr. Whitney added: "We have had no cases of rabies on the Baie Verte Peninsula, but due to the short distance from Jackson�s Arm to this area we feel it is prudent to encourage pet owners to take this precaution and ensure their pets are vaccinated."

The provincial government will subsidize the cost of vaccinations at $10 per animal payable to the veterinary clinic involved. The actual fee to pet owners will be established by the veterinary clinic. Owners of pets are advised to contact their local private veterinarian for details on vaccinations. The limits of the Baie Verte Peninsula for the vaccination program are from White Bay on the west to the western shore of Hall�s Bay on the east.

Residents are again advised to:

• Keep domestic animals, such as dogs and cats, under control;
• Vaccinate pets against rabies;
• Avoid wild animals, particularly foxes and coyotes;
• Report to officials (conservation officers, veterinarians, police, public health officials) any sightings of wild or domestic animals acting strangely;
• Wash any bites or other areas of contact with potentially rabid animals immediately with soap and water;
• See your family physician immediately for treatment of any animal bites;
• Report any bites or other significant contact with potentially rabid animals to public health officials immediately.

Additional information on this disease can be found on the Department of Forest Resources and Agrifoods� website at www.gov.nl.ca//www.gov.nl.ca/agric/her&rab/rabiesfront.htm or by contacting the following:

Dr. Hugh Whitney, Provincial Veterinarian, Department of Forest Resources and Agrifoods (709) 729-6879

Dr. Faith Stratton, Chief Medical Officer of Health, Department of Health and Community Services (709) 729-3430

Media contact: Sonia B. Glover, Communications, (709) 729-6183.

2003 02 18                                        1:30 p.m.