Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have a return to an oral question asked by Mr. Pudluk on September 17, in regard to vaccinations for dogs. Canine distemper vaccinations are currently available in all outlying communities in the Northwest Territories.
Following an territorial-wide distemper outbreak in 1987/88, Renewable Resources coordinated an emergency Distemper Vaccination Program in order to protect working sled dogs. A combined rabies/distemper vaccine was subsequently re-introduced in Agriculture Canada's Northern Rabies Control Program. This annual vaccination program is administered in the communities by the R.C.M.P., and Renewable Resources staff continue to assist with these efforts. The vaccine is completely safe, and program personnel are aware of proper vaccination guidelines. Vaccination is not recommended during pregnancy, and when administered correctly, the vaccine has no negative effects on young dogs, or nursing mothers. Thank you.