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Animal Biting/Scratching Incidents


What do I do if my family member or I am bitten or scratched by an animal (dog, cat, squirrel, bat, etc.)?
After seeking treatment for yourself or your family member, you must notify Elgin St. Thomas Public Health so that a follow-up may be done on the animal that bit or scratched you. If you know the owner of the animal, please provide this information to the Public Health Inspector or staff member at Elgin St. Thomas Public Health.


What if I don't know the owner or the animal is a stray or wild?
If the animal or its owner cannot be located or the animal is wild, you will need to discuss with your family physician whether or not you will need to have the rabies vaccine administered.


What if my animal's vaccinations are not up-to-date?
At the end of the confinement period of 10 days, you will be expected to provide proof of your pet's vaccinations or have it vaccinated at that time. Failure to do so will result in a fine in addition to the cost of having the animal vaccinated.


What if my dog/cat scratched/bites someone?
You will be contacted by a public health inspector from Elgin St. Thomas Public Health to find out if your pet's vaccinations are up-to-date. You will be asked to keep your pet isolated from people for 10 days until it has been determined that your pet does not have rabies.