What you need to know about the deadly rabies virus.
It’s Rabies Awareness Month, and we’re bringing you the facts! Rabies is a serious viral disease that can affect both animals and humans. There’s essential information that every pet owner should know about rabies to protect their pets, themselves, and their communities.
What is Rabies?
Rabies is a viral disease that affects the nervous system. It is typically transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal via bites, scratches or open wounds. The virus travels along the nerves to the brain, leading to severe neurological symptoms and eventual death.
5 Facts About Rabies
- Range of Hosts:
Rabies can affect a wide range of mammals, including domestic pets like dogs and cats, as well as wildlife, such as bats, squirrels, and foxes. Any mammal can potentially carry and transmit the virus.
- Human Transmission:
The virus can be transmitted to humans through bites, scratches, or exposure to infected saliva. Immediate medical attention, including post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), is crucial after potential exposure. Once symptoms appear (30 to 50 days after being bitten), the disease is almost always fatal.
- Prevention Is Better Than a Cure:
Vaccinating your pets against rabies is essential. Regular vaccinations not only protects your pet from the disease but also helps to prevent its spread to humans and other animals. Puppies and kittens should receive their first rabies vaccine as early as 12 weeks of age.
Follow your veterinarian's recommended vaccination schedule, as booster shots are necessary to maintain immunity and should be given annually.
- Dangers of Wildlife Exposure:
The other option for prevention is to avoid letting your pets roam freely and keep them indoors, especially during the evening and nighttime when wildlife is more active. Supervise outdoor activities and walks to prevent encounters with potentially infected animals.
- Common Symptoms:
Infected animals may display behavioural changes, including aggression, confusion, excessive drooling, and difficulty swallowing. Paralysis and staggering may also occur.
Seeking Veterinary Care
If you suspect your pet has been exposed to rabies or is displaying abnormal behaviour, seek immediate veterinary care. Your veterinarian can determine the best course of action, which might include quarantine.
It’s imperative that even when Rabies Awareness Month comes to an end, we continue to raise awareness and share knowledge with each other. Rabies is a serious and potentially deadly disease, but with education and responsible pet ownership, we can significantly reduce its impact.
