Wolf tests positive for rabies in Makkovik

Dr. Hugh Whitney, provincial veterinarian, today confirmed that a wolf killed in the community of Makkovik on July 19 has tested positive for rabies.

RCMP in the community were forced to kill the wolf after it attacked and killed three dogs. The animal was sent to Canadian Food Inspection Agency laboratory facilities where a positive rabies confirmation was recently made. It is not believed the wolf had contact with any residents of Makkovik prior to being killed.

Dr. Whitney says this latest case illustrates that the general public must remain vigilant and always take appropriate steps to reduce the risk of contracting and spreading rabies.

"Residents are encouraged to act responsibly by only keeping animals for which they can properly care," said Dr. Whitney. "They should also ensure that animals are not left to roam at large. It is important that all communities in Labrador take measures where possible to implement an active dog control and rabies vaccination programs."

In order to control the spread of rabies, Labrador residents are encouraged to take the following precautions:

• Keep domestic animals, such as dogs and cats, under control;
• Vaccinate dogs and cats against rabies;
• Avoid wild animals particularly foxes and wolves;
• Report any sightings of strange-acting wild or domestic animals to conservation officers, veterinarians, police or public health officials;
• Wash any bites or other areas of contact with potentially rabid animals immediately with soap and water;
• Immediately go to your health clinic or emergency department for treatment of any animal bites;
• Immediately report any bites or other significant contact with potentially rabid animals to public health officials.

The provincial government has rabies education posters in English, Inuktitut and Innu-aimun. These contain important information related to rabies and can be obtained through local forestry and wildlife, agriculture and public health offices or from the office of the provincial veterinarian.

Further questions can be directed to: Dr. Hugh Whitney, Provincial Veterinarian, (709) 729-6879

Media contact: Carmel Turpin, Communications, (709) 729-5282

2004 08 23                                       9:40 a.m.