If an animal that has not been vaccinated sufficiently for rabies has been in contact with a rabid animal they could be put in quarintine for as long as six months. If the CFIA is convinced an animal has rabies it must be destroyed. There is no live test for rabies available. The brain of the animal must be sent away for evaluation. Veterinarian Dr. Jeff Gervin of the Boissevain Animal Clinic feels most pet owners in the area are aware of the dangers of rabies.
Rabies is endemic in the skunk population around here.
Gervin and his wife Dr. Hayley Adams, who is also a veterinarian at the Boissevain clinic, are vaccinated for rabies. They are monitored through a series of blood tests which determine when it is necessary to revaccinate. The length of time between vaccinations varies among individuals. CFIA reccommends that livestock should be vaccinated, but it isn't always feasible with large numbers. But doing your pleasure horse would be a good idea.