Earlier this year, Andrea Ziegler, the publisher of Jasper Local, embarked on a backcountry adventure with her husband and friends. Little did she know that she would have a terrifying encounter with a pine marten.

After a day of skiing and a night of fun, Andrea had to use the outhouse. As she sat down, she felt something clawing at her, leading to a chaotic moment of panic and screams. This incident shed light on the dark side of cute pine martens.

Stories of rabies quickly surfaced, with locals sharing their own encounters with the disease. From finding dead bats in backyards to waking up with a pine marten on their head, these tales highlighted the real risks associated with wildlife.

One particularly legendary story involved a climber who had a painful run-in with a pine marten in an outhouse. The aftermath of this bizarre encounter left a lasting impression on both the victim and those who witnessed the event.

Following her own scare, Andrea had to undergo rabies post-exposure prophylaxis, a series of treatments to prevent the disease from taking hold. This experience underscored the importance of being vigilant when it comes to potential rabies exposure.

Rabies is a deadly virus that affects mammals, including humans. While Canada has made strides in controlling wildlife rabies, the disease remains a serious threat in other parts of the world, especially in Africa and Asia.

For those who work with animals or travel to high-risk areas, getting a rabies vaccine is crucial. However, the cost of these vaccines can be prohibitive, making it essential to weigh the risks and benefits before embarking on any adventures.

As an expert in backcountry toilets, Greg Horne warns of the dangers of pine martens and other critters taking up residence in outhouses. His insights shed light on the importance of being cautious when using these facilities, especially in remote areas.

Andrea Ziegler's harrowing experience serves as a reminder of the hidden dangers that lurk beneath the surface, even in the most picturesque of settings.