Dog attacks spur warning from Department of Health
Citing ‘several’ recent incidents, officials advise people to be wary of animal
A pack of stray dogs roam Iqaluit. The Department of Health is reminding Nunavummiut to stay safe around dogs, following “several” recent attacks across the territory. (File photo by Jeff Pelletier)
The Department of Health is reminding Nunavummiut to stay safe around dogs, citing “several” recent attacks across the territory.
The department published a public service announcement Monday afternoon, advising residents to “be aware of the risks” and asking “parents to have conversations with their children about safe interactions with dogs.”
“Any dog can bite,” spokesperson Charmaine Deogracias wrote in the announcement.
Citing privacy concerns, Deogracias declined to share with Nunatsiaq News where the the recent incidents occurred or how severe they were.
An 11-year-old girl was medevaced last week with serious injuries to her head and face after a dog attacked her in Iqaluit.
The Department of Health announcement advises Nunavummiut to stay away from stray dogs, mothers and their pups, or dogs that are eating. It also says not to disturb a sleeping dog and to ask permission before petting a dog.
Due to the risk of rabies, anyone who gets bitten or scratched by a dog should wash the wound with soap and water, then go to their local health centre, according to the statement.
“Treatment must be started quickly after exposure, as rabies infections are almost always fatal,” the announcement said.
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