The Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit is urging you to be cautious around animals to prevent the spread of rabies.
The health unit says one bite or scratch from an animal with the virus can expose you to it, and put you at risk of serious injury. The rabies virus is fatal to humans if it’s not treated.
The health unit is reminding you to stay away from wild animals. If the animal is growling or being aggressive, back away slowly but don’t turn around and run, and avoid making direct eye contact.
You should also be cautious around unfamiliar pets. Make sure you have the owner’s permission and the attention before getting close to it, because the animal can misinterpret petting or touching, and snap at you.
The health unit is asking pet owners to only let their animals off-leash at dog parks. They’re also encouraged to get their pets vaccinated for rabies.
To find out more, you can contact the health unit at 1-866-888-4577 or visit www.hkpr.on.ca.