The Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit is trying to take the bite out of rabies this fall.
Through a partnership with local veterinarians and municipalities the Health Unit will be offering rabies vaccination clinics throughout the counties. The Health Unit’s goal is to provide rabies vaccinations to as many cats and dogs as possible. According to officials with the Health Unit it is against the law to let your pet fall behind on their vaccinations. They add that increasing the number of animals vaccinated against rabies will decrease the number of humans exposed to the disease.
The Health Unit also wants to remind hunters preparing for opening season to vaccinate their dogs. To help protect some wild animals from rabies the Ministry of Natural Resources releases bait in select areas during August. Hunting dogs can still encounter potentially infected animals while running through the brush. It can be difficult to tell if an animal has rabies by simply looking at them. Some signs of infection include strange behavior, especially timid or aggressive, and excessive drooling.
If you or any member of your family has been bitten, scratched or come in contact with a potentially rabid animal you should contact your local Health Unit or doctor. The Health Unit say you can also go to your local emergency department immediately.
The clinics will be held on September 13th and 20th. To find a location near you call 1-800-660-5853 or visit the Health Unit’s website at www.healthunit.org.