Dogs Shot Near Russian Border, Rabies Checks Underway

Authorities in northern Norway have euthanized three dogs suspected of crossing the border from Russia. The animals, now being tested for rabies, were found without identification, prompting immediate action amid concerns about disease transmission.

Incident Details

On Monday night, officials responded to reports of stray canines near Sør-Varanger, a town in the Finnmark region. The game committee investigated after receiving information regarding animals possibly originating from across the border. The dogs were discovered in the Skrøytnes area.

“Three dogs were located and subsequently killed,” stated operations manager Jan Arne Pettersen of the Finnmark police district. “They lacked collars, and there was no evidence of ownership. They are currently undergoing rabies testing.”

Rabies, while absent on the Norwegian mainland, is present in Russia, raising public health concerns. According to the World Health Organization, rabies causes tens of thousands of deaths globally each year, mostly in Asia and Africa (WHO 2024).

Geographic Context

Sør-Varanger, situated in Norway’s northeastern corner, shares a border with Russia. The proximity heightens the risk of disease spread, necessitating stringent measures to protect both human and animal populations. The dogs’ lack of identification underscored the uncertainty of their origin and health status.

The incident highlights the ongoing challenges of managing cross-border animal movement and the importance of disease surveillance. The results of the rabies tests will determine the next steps in managing any potential public health risks.