A case of rabies has been confirmed in a dog in Hopedale.

The province says the dog had possible contact with a fox in the community about six weeks ago.

Public Health has completed a risk assessment of human contact and is continuing to trace possible contacts.

People in Labrador are being asked to be vigilant and take precautions when encountering animals that are acting in an unusual or aggressive manner, including staggering, frothing at the mouth, choking, and making unusual noises.

Residents should avoid touching or feeding stray or wild animals. They’re also asked to keep domestic animals – such as dogs and cats – tethered or in an enclosed area while outdoors, and to supervise them.

As well, people are being encouraged to watch for signs of rabies in their animals, to get pets vaccinated, and to report all sightings of animals acting strangely.

Any person in Labrador recently bitten or scratched by a dog or fox should contact a community clinic to be assessed.

Government says people should always seek immediate medical treatment if in contact with a potentially rabid animal. They say early treatment is effective against rabies, otherwise the disease is almost always fatal.