What should I do if I think I’ve harvested a diseased animal?
The majority of the fish and wildlife in Alberta are healthy and pose little risk of passing disease onto humans.
However, if you suspect there’s something unusual about the game you have harvested:
- Tag the carcass.
- Dress it out.
- Handle the meat so it doesn’t spoil. For unusual fish or waterfowl, freeze the entire animal.
- Take pictures if you can and contact the nearest Fish and Wildlife office by calling: 310–0000.
Staff may be able to address your concerns over the phone, or they may ask you to bring in a sample of the animal tissue.
What should I do after handling dead wildlife?
- It’s always advisable to wear gloves and wash your hands after handling dead wildlife.
- Ensure harvested fish and game are properly cooked or, if being stored, are thoroughly frozen.
- If you experience fever, pain or swelling after handling wildlife, contact a physician.
Related Information
- Wildlife Diseases
Check out this page on the Alberta Sustainable Resource Development (SRD) website for a document entitled Wildlife and Human Health in Alberta.