Rabies shots are the only way to guarantee that your pet won't contract this all-too-common illness. Rabies is a devastating virus that causes great discomfort, paralysis and death in both animals and humans. It can be avoided by keeping your pets up to date on their rabies shots and steering clear of any animals that are acting suspiciously. Though a dog rabies shot is mandated by law in all states, cat rabies shots are not required. This is unfortunate, as currently cats have a higher rate of rabies infection than dogs.
Who Can Get Rabies?
Any warm-blooded mammal is at risk of being infected with rabies if it comes into contact with a rabid animal. Because of this, it is necessary to have your pets vaccinated against rabies. Of course there are some pets who should be vaccinated more than others. All dogs should be vaccinated against rabies. This isn't just a good preventative measure against rabies, it's required by law in most states. The first shots are given during between the ages of three and six months, with a follow up after your pet is one year old. Booster shots must be given every two to three years.
Cats should be receive the rabies vaccine as well. In the past it was thought that only outdoors cats should be vaccinated against rabies, but lately veterinarians have been advising that even indoor cats should receive the rabies vaccine. This is especially beneficial should your indoor cat get outside and come into contact with a rabid animal. Veterinarians also recommend that ferrets, horses and some other livestock be vaccinated against the rabies virus.
Keep Vaccination up to Date
Make sure that your pet is always up to date on rabies vaccines. If she is bitten by a suspicious animal and her rabies vaccine has lapsed, there may not be much that can be done to save her. If your pet has never received the rabies vaccine and is exposed to a rabid animal, he will either have to be put to sleep or quarantined for six months. Even if your pet is up to date on her vaccinations, she will need another one after being exposed to an animal which is suspected of having rabies.
Side effects of the rabies vaccine are rare. They include vomiting, loss of consciousness, swelling, lethargy, seizures, dementia, a loss of balance and possibly death. Though this can be scary for pet owners, keep in mind that once a human or animal has rabies, there is no cure and death is certain.
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The rabies vaccine is mandatory for dogs and highly recommended for all cats. While there are some risks with the vaccine, they are far less dangerous than the prospect of a pet contracting rabies. |
