News Release                                                   For Immediate Release

                                                                                                May 19, 2005

Third Rabid Skunk in Dundalk

Today, a skunk was confirmed rabid in the village of Dundalk.  This is the third rabid skunk in the Dundalk area this month.    

Rabies can be transmitted to humans, pets, and livestock, usually by exposure to saliva of an infected animal, including skunks.

For your safety, please remember the following:

• Keep pets indoor at night.  Many animals prone to rabies prowl at night.
• Don’t allow your pets to roam.
• Observe wild animals from a distance.  Caution children about strange animals.
• Do not approach or attempt to play with stray cats or dogs.  Unknown animals can be unfriendly or dangerous.
• Do not physically touch any animal that is dead, suspected to have rabies, or that was involved in a fight with a suspect rabid animal.
• Ensure your dogs, cats, and riding horses have up-to-date rabies vaccination.

For further information, please call Public Health at 376-9420 or visit our web site at www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca.

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For more information:

Karen Sweiger, RN, BScN

Program Manager, Rabies

Grey Bruce Health Unit

376-9420