Kahnawà:ke Animal Control Services (KACS) of the Public Safety Division (PSD) of the Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke, wishes to inform the community that a case of raccoon rabies was confirmed in a stray cat in Godmanchester, Québec, on July 16, 2026. The location is approximately 60 kilometres from Kahnawà:ke.
As of Monday, August 3, 2026, no cases of rabies have been reported in Kahnawà:ke. At this time, the Ministère de l’Environnement, de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques, de la Faune et des Parcs (MELCCFP) has not issued additional guidance related to the recent case. Once further information is received from the ministry, KACS will review and update any necessary safety measures related to its trap-and-release procedures and wildlife trap rental program.
Community members are reminded that the relocation of wildlife is currently prohibited and should not be undertaken until further notice from the ministry.
Symptoms of rabies in wildlife may include:
- Excessive salivation, drooling, or foaming at the mouth
- Hyperactivity
- A loss of fear toward humans or other animals
- Disorientation or lethargy
- Restlessness
Prevention remains the most effective protection against rabies. Rabies is a serious viral disease that is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. KACS regularly offers vaccination clinics for pets during the spring and fall and is currently exploring the possibility of holding an earlier clinic as an additional preventative measure.
Pet owners are strongly encouraged to ensure their animals’ rabies vaccinations are up to date through their veterinarian.
KACS will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more information becomes available. Community members are reminded that there are currently no reported cases of rabies in Kahnawà:ke. Anyone who observes a sick, injured, or debilitated animal is encouraged to contact Kahnawà:ke Animal Control Services at 450-632-0635 or 514-232-3307 to make a report.
