11/12/2026
Important Update on RHD! Please ensure you talk with your vet about vaccination🐰❤️.
🐰 IMPORTANT UPDATE FOR ALBERTA RABBIT OWNERS
The Office of the Chief Provincial Veterinarian has issued a notice regarding Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease (RHD) following recent reports of outbreaks in snowshoe hares in British Columbia and the Northwest Territories, as well as reports of deaths consistent with RHD in snowshoe hares across northern Alberta.
What is Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease?
Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease (RHD) is a highly contagious and often fatal viral disease affecting rabbits and hares. Alberta first detected RHD in 2021, with previous cases affecting both domestic and wild rabbits.
Clinical signs can include:
• Fever and lethargy
• Decreased or absent appetite
• Difficulty breathing
• Bloody nasal discharge
• Difficulty walking or paddling of the legs
• Seizures or paralysis
How can you protect your rabbit? 🩺
There is currently no treatment for RHD, but a vaccine is available. We recommend speaking with your veterinarian about vaccination and appropriate preventative measures.
Enhanced biosecurity is also important:
• Limit contact with wild rabbits and hares.
• Prevent contact with potentially contaminated materials.
• Practice good hygiene when handling your rabbit or entering their living space.
• Avoid introducing potentially contaminated items into your rabbit’s environment.
A few important things to know:
RHD poses no known risk to humans. However, it is a serious disease for domestic and wild rabbit populations.
If you have concerns about your rabbit’s health or would like to discuss vaccination, please contact your veterinarian.
Awareness and prevention are key to protecting our rabbit companions! ☺️
Information provided by the Office of the Chief Provincial Veterinarian, Alberta (November 4, 2026).
Link: https://www.alberta.ca/office-of-the-chief-provincial-veterinarian-notices
