The Provincial and Nunatsiavut Governments are encouraging pet owners in Labrador to vaccinate their animals.
The recommendation comes after one animal on a dogsled team competing in a recent heritage race in Makkovik was confirmed as having rabies, and another dog in Nain was attacked by a fox confirmed as having rabies.
The unvaccinated dog from Makkovik was euthanized earlier this month due to deteriorating health.
The other animals on the same dog team have been vaccinated and are under quarantine, and Mushers are asked to be aware of this risk.
Any suspicious contact between dogs, or between dogs and wild animals, should be reported to local conservation officers with the Provincial Government’s Forestry and Agrifoods Agency or the Nunatsiavut Government.
There have been nine confirmed cases of rabies in Labrador this winter in Labrador City, Voisey’s Bay, Hopedale, and most recently, the Makkovik and Nain areas.
Additional animal carcasses have been submitted for testing.
Officials with the Provincial Government’s Forestry and Agrifoods Agency and Department of Health and Community Services advise that abundant sea ice could lead to infected animals crossing from Labrador onto the island of Newfoundland.
Residents are encouraged to be vigilant and take precautions when encountering animals acting in a strange or aggressive manner.
Report any sightings of strange-acting wild or domestic animals to conservation officers.
Wash any bites or other areas of contact with potentially rabid animals immediately with soap and water.
Go to your health clinic or emergency department immediately for treatment of any animal bites.