Darrell Greer
Northern News Services

Rankin Inlet (Aug 10/05) - A two-year-old girl has been medevaced to Winnipeg after being attacked by a rabid dog in the area of Rankin Inlet known as Old Town.

Rankin fire chief and acting SAO Rick Penner said the attack occurred shortly after 1p.m. on July 31.

He said within moments after a call about the attack was placed to the municipality, the injured child and her mother arrived at the fire hall in a vehicle.

"They were instructed to go immediately to the health centre to have treatment provided for the wounds the little girl sustained in the attack," said Penner. "She was suffering from severe facial injuries."

The girl was medevaced to the Winnipeg Children's Hospital for treatment. A hospital spokesperson listed her in stable condition at press time.

Penner said the dog found in the immediate vicinity of the attack scene was quickly captured and destroyed.

"When the dog was captured, it was obvious it had just attacked someone or something because it had blood all over its face."

Environmental health officer Bob Hanley confirmed the dog tested positive for rabies.

The test was conducted in a lab in Lethbridge, Alberta.

Hanley said there may be other infected animals in the community.

"There is a legitimate concern for all citizens the public must be aware of," said Hanley. "We will release a public-service announcement, and town administration implemented controls right away to deal with the situation."

Caution urged

Hanley said to the best of his knowledge, this was the first case of a domestic animal being infected with rabies in Rankin this year.

He said no other animal has been identified with rabies since the attack.

"Owners have to take responsible action as far as controlling their dogs and making sure vaccinations are up to date.

"People should also notify the bylaw officer if they see a stray dog and the animal will be caught and destroyed."

Hanley said dog owners should also watch their animals for any sign of rabies.

"The earliest indicator would be a significant change in a dog's behaviour pattern.

That could be in the animal's eating patterns, or a usually quiet dog suddenly becoming emotional and barking a lot."