Rabies is probably the best known vaccine in animals, likely
because it is required by law in most dogs and cats. This particular disease
poses a significant threat to animals as well as humans! While many people may
not think rabies is a major concern in today’s society, that is simply not
true. Rabies cases are actually on the rise. Once a person or animal is
symptomatic this virus is almost always fatal. Prevention is so much safer and
easier than worrying about the risk of contracting this virus.
Prevention is accomplished by an annual (or in some cases
every 3 year) vaccine. Dogs and cats can receive this vaccine at 4 moths of
age, then every year (or 3 years) after depending on state and local
legislature. Most cases of rabies are documented in wildlife. This is typically
how domestic animals become affected. Bite wounds are inflicted from an
affected animal and if your pet is not up to date on their rabies vaccine that
could be at an even greater risk of contracting the disease. Most animals will
not demonstrate signs right away. However once they do, it is almost always
fatal. You may be thinking, but I have a cat that never goes outside. While
their risk could be lower, it is possible for them to sneak out just once and
the could encounter a wild animal and be exposed. Also bats can carry rabies
and bats are notorious for getting into peoples’ houses. Bats pose an
additional problem in that most or the time you cannot see if they have bitten
your pet. Again getting the vaccine regularly could help significantly reduce
any worry associated with rabies.
Symptoms can vary from change in personality (including
aggression), to extreme lethargy. Unfortunately these could take up to a year
to show up after an initial bite. Once they do become apparent however
treatment is not successful. There is currently no test that can detect rabies
virus on live pets. This is why if patients are not up to date on vaccines and have
bitten someone state laws demand a quarantine period. That way if patient does
pass away in that time they can be submitted for testing. It also prevents them
from biting others and possible spreading the condition.
Rabies has become such a hot topic there is even a World
Rabies Day to promote awareness. Their website is here. There is a lot of information available about the rabies virus. A few good
websites can be found here, here, here and here.
If you have any questions or concerns it is best to contact
you veterinarian, local animal control or the health department immediately.
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