Wolf aggressive with Labrador snowmobilers diagnosed with rabies

A wolf that was acting aggressively toward snowmobilers in western Labrador over the weekend, and later put down by conservation officers, has been diagnosed with rabies.

On Jan. 25, the wolf was killed by conservation officers after it was aggressive with a group of snowmobilers.

Officials with the Newfoundland and Labrador Department of Natural Resources say this is the first case of rabies in the region since July 2014.

While the statement said there was no confirmation of any human or domestic animal making contact with the wolf, officials are asking the general public to report any contact that could have happened before the Jan. 25 incident.

Samples from the animal were sent to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency in Ottawa to confirm the diagnosis.

Officials said in the statement residents should keep domestic animals under observation, avoid wild animals and ensure pets are up to date on vaccinations.

People in western Labrador are also asked to contact officials if any wild animals appear to be acting strangely.