September 2021

Rabies is a zoonotic viral disease that attacks the central nervous system of mammals, causing death. Although rabies is 100 per cent preventable, it’s a global public health issue that kills over 59,000 people each year.

While dogs are the main cause of human deaths in the world, wild animals such as skunks and bats are the most common rabies carriers in Canada.

Prevention is key, so work with your veterinarian to ensure that your pets and horses receive regular rabies vaccinations. Contact the Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment’s toll-free line (1-800-667-7561) if you suspect a wild animal is rabid. If you’re bitten by a non-vaccinated pet or wild animal, call 811 (Saskatchewan HealthLine).