World Rabies Day: Vaccinate Your Pets Against Rabies
Louis Pasteur was the leader of many groundbreaking scientific discoveries. Pasteur was a chemist and pharmacist from whom pasteurization was named, as he pioneered this process to make milk safe for human consumption. He also discovered vaccinations for both rabies and anthrax.
On September 28, the world marks Pasteur’s discovery of the rabies vaccine. This medical breakthrough protects dogs and cats (and humans) from this lethal infection. On World Rabies Day, the Mehlville Fire Protection District reminds the public to protect their pets with a rabies vaccine and reminds everyone of the signs, symptoms, and dangers of this preventable disease.
Table of Contents:
What Is Rabies?
Rabies is a virus that is transmitted from a bite or a scratch from an infected animal. The virus attacks the nervous system and is fatal; infected animals display a range of symptoms, which progress in severity as the virus spreads.
Rabies and Hydrophobia
Rabies is known for a very peculiar symptom (especially in humans). As the virus spreads, the infected host develops a fear of water (hydrophobia) and wind (aerophobia). Rabies affects the neurological system and leads to severe difficulty swallowing, so water causes extreme fear. Wind or a breeze also can cause extreme pain in those suffering from the virus.
The Bat Rabies Myth
The book (and movie) Cujo written by Stephen King tells the story of the rampage of a rabies infected St. Bernard named Cujo. The dog’s infection stemmed from a bite from an infected bat, and left a lasting impression on readers. While bats are carriers of rabies, the link between rabies and bits is overestimated.
According to the National Park Service, less than one percent of bats carry rabies. However, the NPS also notes that any individual waking up in a room with a bat should seek care.
These Animals Are Rabies Carriers
Many people wrongly assume that bats are the lone rabies culprit. There are other animals that are more likely to transmit rabies to family pets or people. Skunks and raccoons are common carriers of rabies.
Do Raccoons Carry Rabies?
Yes, those fun-loving, meme-worthy trash pandas are prone to rabies. The Humane Society of the United States notes that a rabies infection typically kills raccoons in one to three days.
While some people assume that a daylight-prowling raccoon is always a rabid raccoon, the Humane Society explains that this is incorrect. Some raccoons may be hunting in the late morning hours. However, a rabid raccoon will act aggressive, and they may self-harm or seem as though they are struggling to move around.
Do not approach or try to help a raccoon–even if it seems sick. Instead, call animal control for help. In addition, leave baby raccoons alone. Often, their mother could be lurking nearby. If babies are left unattended for several hours, reach out to animal control but never attempt to pick up or rescue babies (even baby raccoons may be infected with rabies).
Skunks and Rabies
Skunks also can be infected with rabies. Beware a skunk that is active in daytime or that moves strangely, acts aggressive, or is sensitive to light. Always call animal control for injured or aggressive skunks.
Can Opossums Get Rabies?
Opossums are not known for their fun-loving behavior toward people. They also are known for their resistance to rabies. Don’t go adopting these cute critters for pets, though. While they are not prone to rabies infections, they transmit other dangerous infections like leptospirosis and toxoplasmosis.
Rabies Shot for Dogs
Rabies is preventable with a simple vaccination. A rabies vaccination may be administered as a yearly vaccine or a long-term (three year) vaccine. Rabies shots for dogs must be up-to-date to ensure that the animal remains protected.
When Do Puppies Get Rabies Shot?
Puppies typically receive their first rabies vaccination at around 16 weeks of age. They received another vaccine a year later. Owners may opt for yearly vaccinations or choose a three-year rabies vaccination.
How to Tell if a Cat Has Rabies
Cats can become infected with rabies. The signs of rabies in cats can vary; owners may notice aggression, difficulty swallowing, foam at the mouth, seizures or paralysis, low or no appetite, and other neurological concerns.
Cats–like dogs–must receive a regular rabies vaccination. This vaccination is first administered to kittens around the age of 16 weeks. Then they receive another vaccine after a year. Owners can decide if they want their cat to receive a yearly or three-year rabies vaccine.
The Importance of Rabies Tags
After a dog or cat receives a rabies vaccination, the administering veterinarian provides the owner with a metal tag that includes the vaccine registration number for the animal. Always include this tag on the animal’s collar. This tag proves the animal is vaccinated and alerts the public (and animal control and law enforcement) that the dog or cat is not at risk for harboring rabies.
How Much Does a Rabies Shot Cost?
St. Louis offers many low-cost rabies clinics. This allows pet owners to vaccinate and protect them from this deadly virus. Check out these affordable clinics:
Carol House Quick Fix Vet Clinic
Call Animal Control for Help With Suspicious Animals
Vaccinate pets to keep them protected from the rabies virus. Mehlville’s team wants to remind the public to NEVER handle a wild animal. Call St. Louis County Animal Care and Control at (314) 615-0650 if you notice any animal acting strangely. Don’t risk a rabies infection; always call for help!
