A significant number of animal bites across the province this year have prompted a gentle reminder from the Saskatchewan Health Authority.
While animals may seem friendly or cute, it's never a good idea to approach or feed unfamiliar animals, both wild and domestic.
Dr. David Torr, medical health officer for the Saskatchewan Health Authority's southwest and integrated rural areas and area department lead for the Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine for the Saskatchewan Health Authority, noted that animal bites can cause infections such as tetanus or carry rabies.
"We've had quite a lot of animal bites this year," he said. "There's a lot of cat bites, especially barn cats or stray cats, and there's been a lot of dog encounters.
"It's really important for animal owners to be sure that their animals are up to date with vaccinations and to take care with their animals, especially when in public places like parks."
Animal bite victims are advised to head to the ER or get assessed by a health care professional as soon as possible after receiving a bite from any animal.
"It's also important to teach kids to be careful with animals and keep a respectful distance," Torr added. "We've had even smaller animals bite, like raccoons and squirrels.
"Not just wild animals, but also be careful with domestic animals, your animal may be your friend, but it may not be friendly with other people."
Anyone looking for more information can head to the Saskatchewan Health Authority's website or visit the Government of Saskatchewan's website.