myFM broke the story to you last week that Huron Perth Public Health was searching for a dog owner in relation to a scratching event.
The HPPH is pleased to announce the owner contacted HPPH and a successful follow-up is being done.
The law in Ontario states that all cats, dogs, and ferrets over 3 months MUST be vaccinated for rabies.
If someone is bit or scratched by an animal infected by rabies, they could contract the fatal disease. If the animal is not found, and the vaccination status cannot be verified, the person who was bitten or scratched may need to complete a series of rabies shots
HPPH investigations are about determining the health of the animal and do not typically involve removing the animal or fining or reporting the owner.
HPPH reminds people to always try to obtain the contact information of the owner of the animal involved in a biting or scratching incident.
If you have been bitten or scratched by an animal, you should:
· Wash the wound with soap and water
· Contact your family doctor or nurse practitioner immediately
· Contact HPPH to report the incident as soon as possible
Animal bites and scratches can be reported to Huron Perth Public Health at 1-888-221-2133 ext 3670. After hours or over the weekend, call the main number and follow the prompts to reach our answering service.
