CK Public Health Inspectors check on possible rabies exposure cases. They make sure the animal is up to date on rabies vaccines and stays healthy during a 10 to 14- day watch period. 

If an animal can't be watched during this time, rabies testing may be done. Testing is mostly for wild animals, stray pets, or animals that are very sick. Only animals that have already died can be tested for rabies. 

Even if testing isn’t possible, rabies can still be prevented. Rabies post-exposure treatment includes a vaccine and immune globulin to protect against the disease. 

• Wash the wound right away with soap and water for at least 15 minutes. 
• See your healthcare provider or go to the hospital as soon as possible. 
• Make sure your healthcare provider reports the incident to CK Public Health. 
• You should also report the bite or scratch to CK Public Health by contacting the Environmental Health team. 

If a wild animal is acting strangely or found dead on your property and no people or pets have touched the animal, call the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry Rabies Information Line at 1-888-574-6656. 

By law, all cats, dogs, and ferrets over three months old must get the rabies vaccine. Talk to your veterinarian to make sure your pet is protected and up to date on their vaccinations.  

Farm animals, like horses, cows, bulls, steers, calves or sheep that have contact with the public must also be vaccinated for rabies.