Rabies Caution Advisory Issued for Stanley Park

May 26, 2004 (No. 33) - The recent discovery of a skunk infected with the rabies virus in Stanley Park has prompted the Vancouver Park Board and Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) to caution the visiting public.

Longstanding park rules should be followed closely with respect to not feeding or touching any wildlife and keeping domestic animals such as dogs on-leash at all times to limit contact with wildlife. Dog walkers should ensure that their dogs have up-to-date rabies vaccinations.

As well, the public is cautioned that if they or their animals have had recent contact with skunks or raccoons they should be in touch with their local Health Unit (check the blue pages of the phone book) or their veterinarians for possible medical follow up.

Visitors to Stanley Park are asked to report any obviously distressed or disoriented behaviour of skunks or raccoons to the park wildlife staff for further action. Park Board Rangers and other staff will inform the visiting public of the rabies advisory starting today.

Sick or disoriented park animals can be reported to 604-257-8491. Other ill wildlife observed outside of parks can be reported to VCH Environmental Health at 604-736-2866.

The public is reminded that urban wildlife such as birds, skunks, squirrels and raccoons are best left to fend for themselves. This allows nature to keep wildlife populations in check in response to the natural foods available to them.

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Contacts:
Terri Clark, Park Board Communication Coordinator, at 604-257-8438.
Viviana Zanocco, Vancouver Coastal Health Media Relations Officer, at 604-708-5282.

The Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation maintains 200 parks and 40 major facilities throughout the City of Vancouver. The Park Board's mission is to provide, preserve and advocate for parks and recreation services to benefit people, communities and the environment.

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