Information for Hound Hunters

Rabbit hunters help prevent the spread of RHDV2 by taking general prevention efforts described on our WHAT CAN YOU DO page.

Below are specific actions that falconers can take to further reduce the risk of spreading RHDV2:

• Notify your state wildlife agency if you notice a decline in rabbit populations in your area
• Wear disposable gloves when handling rabbit and hare carcasses
• Always clean and sanitize knives, equipment (e.g., dog transport cages), and surfaces after hunting
• Do not feed entrails or uncooked rabbit parts to dogs
• If dogs catch a rabbit that has not been shot, the animal may be sick.
• If the rabbit is not dead, humanely dispatch/bury it, and report it to your state wildlife agency
• Avoid transporting rabbits to train hunting dogs
• Do not introduce domestic rabbits to natural environments

When handling rabbit and hare carcasses:

• Do not store rabbit carcasses in dog transport areas.
• Process carcasses on surface that can be sanitized or discarded (e.g., plastic sheet or bag) in a landfill.
  • Hard surfaces can be disinfected with a solution of 10% bleach or 10% sodium hydroxide mixed with water.
• Cook rabbit meat to at least 165°F.
• If field-dressing rabbits and hares, store inedible parts in a non-porous plastic bag.
• Dispose of this bag in your household garbage if it is hauled to a landfill via regular trash collection.
• Alternatively, animal  remains may be burned/incinerated or buried deep enough to prevent scavengers from digging them up

You can find a printable document containing this information
under the DOCUMENTS provided on our RESOURCES page.

For additional information, please see what specific actions other groups can take: