There has been a substantial increase in the incidence of rabies in the province this year with 14 cases thus far compared to just a couple a year over the last decade.
The Executive-Director of the New Brunswick S-P-C-A Hiliary Howes says 13 of the cases involve racoons and that makes it more dangerous because of mobile they are. Racoons have been known to hitch rides on trucks and in railway cars. All of the cases have been in Charlotte County but Howes warns that could change quickly.
There’s a warning for pet owners who allow their dogs to roam free. If their rabies vaccination is not current, owners could be fined from $140 up to $640.
Howes also warns cats are at risk because there are more cats roaming around free than dogs. He adds when an animal is rabid, it is not afraid of anything.
