I really did it… I gave in to two years of persistent requests, power point presentations and pleading by my kids for a dog. Yup, we got a puppy, cutest thing ever. I may be a bit bias.

This is my first dog ever. I knew nothing of owning a dog –nothing! So our first vet visit was full of questions and more questions about how to care for the pup and about all the vaccines he needed.

My pup needed vaccines at each vet appointment including the rabies vaccine.

Of course I’d heard about rabies, but I didn’t know it is a deadly disease in both humans and animals. And I didn’t know that in Ontario it’s required by law to vaccinate all cats and dogs over three months old and if you don’t you could be fined.

Why should we protect our pets and families from rabies in Halton? Well our neighbours in Hamilton reported their first case of rabies in a domestic animal in over 20 years; a cat was found to be positive for raccoon strain rabies.  Raccoon strain rabies is circulating in raccoons and skunks in Hamilton and the immediately surrounding area; to date there have been over 180 positive cases.

So what can you do to help?

• Ensure your dogs and cats are kept up-to-date with their rabies vaccinations.
• If your pet comes in contact with a wild animal take them to a veterinarian for follow up.
• Teach children to avoid unfamiliar cats and dogs, not touch sick or dead animals and to observe wildlife from a distance.
• Call 311 to report all animal bites, scratches, and possible exposures to the Health Department asap.

Our growing pup instantly became part of our family. Everyone, including our kids has their responsibilities and I will admit he is a lot of work. I don’t know much about dog ownership. I’m learning, but the one thing I do know is that I want to keep all my family safe, including the furry ones.

For more information about rabies, feel free to contact us.

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For parenting information or to speak with a Public Health Nurse (every Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) simply dial 311 or 905-825-6000.