Rabies is a deadly viral disease that affects the central nervous system of mammals, including humans. It is caused by the rabies virus (rhabdovirus), which is found in the saliva of infected animals. Rabies is transmitted to humans and other animals through the bite of an infected animal, or through contact with the saliva of an infected animal on an open wound or mucous membrane.

Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms develop, but it is 100% preventable with vaccination. Rabies vaccines are safe and effective, and they are required by law for most dogs and cats in the United States.

• Understanding Rabies
• Symptoms in Dogs
• Symptoms in Cats
• Importance of Vaccination
• Rabies Vaccine for Dogs
• Rabies Vaccine for Cats
• Is Rabies Vaccine required?

1. Understanding Rabies

Rabies is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans. The virus, known as rhabdovirus, affects the central nervous system of infected animals or people. Rabid animals exhibit symptoms such as aggression, isolation, agitation, neurologic signs, incoordination, paralysis, and foaming at the mouth. The virus is primarily spread through bites, as it is present in the infected animal’s saliva. Unfortunately, there is currently no treatment for Rabies once an animal or person becomes infected. In humans, a series of Rabies shots can be administered to mitigate the spread of the infection, while in animals, euthanasia is the only option, followed by laboratory testing to confirm Rabies post-mortem.

While Rabies has been largely eliminated from urban areas, the virus still persists in wildlife populations that may occasionally come into contact with domestic animals. Animals such as raccoons, bats, skunks, foxes, and coyotes can carry the Rabies virus and transmit it to pets.

2. Symptoms of Rabies in Dogs

In dogs, rabies typically progresses through three distinct stages: the prodromal, the furious, and the paralytic (dumb) stage. Initially, you may notice subtle personality changes—a normally friendly dog may become shy, or a calm dog may become restless. As the virus attacks the central nervous system, “furious” symptoms often emerge, characterized by extreme aggression, snapping at imaginary objects, and heightened sensitivity to light and sound. In the final “dumb” stage, dogs experience difficulty swallowing and paralysis of the jaw and throat muscles, leading to the classic symptom of “foaming at the mouth.” Unfortunately, once a dog begins to show these neurologic signs, the disease is rapidly fatal.

3. Symptoms of Rabies in Cats

Cats often exhibit more aggressive or “furious” symptoms than dogs when infected. An infected cat may show sudden erratic behavior, such as pouncing on objects, hiding in dark corners, or attacking other animals and humans without provocation. Physical symptoms include a loss of muscle coordination, tremors, and a distinct change in their meow due to laryngeal paralysis. A noted feature in cats is widely dilated pupils throughout all stages of the disease. As the virus progresses, cats may struggle to eat or drink (hydrophobia) and eventually succumb to paralysis. Because cats are skilled at hiding illness, these behavioral changes are often the first—and most critical—warning signs for owners to recognize.

4. Importance of Vaccination

Vaccinating our pets against Rabies is crucial to reduce the risk of infection if a bite occurs. Puppies and kittens typically receive their first Rabies vaccine at 12 weeks of age, which provides protection for one year. Depending on state regulations and vaccination laws, Rabies vaccination may be mandatory for all domestic animals, with non-compliance resulting in quarantine protocols.

5. Rabies Vaccination for Dogs

In dogs, Rabies vaccination can be administered every 1 to 3 years. Regular vaccination is required for veterinary visits, grooming sessions, and boarding facilities. Most often, dogs receive a killed virus adjuvanted vaccine, where the virus is rendered inactive, and an adjuvant is added to enhance the immune response.

6. Rabies Vaccination for Cats

Similar to dogs, Rabies vaccination for cats can be administered every 1 or 3 years. It is also mandatory for veterinary visits, grooming, and boarding. Cats usually receive a recombinant non-adjuvanted vaccine, in which the genetic composition of the virus is altered to remove additional immune-stimulating substances.

7. Why is Rabies Vaccination Required?

Veterinary clinics, groomers, and boarding facilities enforce Rabies vaccination requirements for a significant reason. Any animal, regardless of its size or temperament, has the potential to bite under certain circumstances. If an unvaccinated pet bites a human, the pet will need to be quarantined for 10 days and cannot be vaccinated against rabies within that time frame, while the bitten individual will undergo a series of four Rabies vaccines within a 14-day period at a hospital. Rabies poses a real threat to both animals and humans, making Rabies vaccination crucial for our pets. By adhering to vaccination schedules, we can protect our beloved companions from this deadly disease and prevent unnecessary complications in case of bites or potential exposure. Stay responsible and ensure your pet’s Rabies vaccination is up to date, providing them with the best possible protection against this dangerous virus.

For more information about Rabies, visit:
Rabies Aware 
CDC.gov

References:
McCurnin’s Clinical Textbook for Veterinary Technicians
cdc.gov
rabiesaware.org
AVMA Journals (Epidemiology of Rabies in Cats)
World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA)

Disclaimer: This blog is meant to be used as a resource tool for pet owners, pet enthusiasts, and anyone who would like to understand a little bit more about how to better care for our pets. As with any information on the internet, please take it with a grain of salt, and always consult with your veterinarian to discuss the best course of action for your furry friend.

Editor’s Note: The original version of this blog was published on June 16th, 2021.

The post What is Rabies? appeared first on The Life of Fido.

Being a veterinary technician is very rewarding. I love being able to help animals and their owners. My favorite part of the job is answering questions from pet owners who are genuinely interested in the well-being of their pets and how to make their lives better. I believe that pet owners should feel empowered to ask questions and learn more about their furry friends. After all, “you don’t know what you don’t know until you know.”

I have seen firsthand how education can benefit pet owners and their pets. When pet owners have a better understanding of their pet’s health and needs, they are better equipped to make informed decisions about their care. This can lead to a healthier and happier life for both the pet and the owner.

That is why I have decided to start this blog. I want to help educate pet owners about the things they are curious about for their pets and offer resources and tools to help you care for your pet. From simple first checkups and vaccines to understanding when it is time to say goodbye, and everything in between. I hope that this information will help pet owners keep their furry babies healthier and happier.

Here are some examples of how I can help:

• Puppy care: such as puppy socialization and puppy training.
• Adult pet care: such as nutrition, preventive care, and common health problems.
• Senior pet care: such as age-related changes, hospice care, and euthanasia.
• Pet behavior: such as common behavior problems, training tips, and socialization.
• Pet nutrition: such as choosing the right food for your pet, and feeding guidelines.
• Pet health: such as common diseases and parasites, vaccination schedules, and first aid.

I am also happy to answer specific questions that pet owners may have. I believe that every pet is different, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer to every question. But, in the end, the best advice will always come from your veterinarian, as they know best about the health history of your pet.

I am excited to embark on this journey with you and help you learn more about your furry friends. As we embark on this shared journey, I invite you to engage with me, ask questions, and share your experiences. Together, we can create a healthier and happier world for all pets.

See you next time! Until then Stay Pawsitively Purrfect!!!

Disclaimer: This blog is meant to be used as a resource tool for pet owners, pet enthusiasts, and anyone who would like to understand a little bit more about how to better care for our pets. As with any information on the internet, please take it with a grain of salt, and always consult with your veterinarian to discuss the best course of action for your furry friend.

Editor’s Note: The original version of this blog was published on June 3rd, 2021.

The post What is this blog about? appeared first on The Life of Fido.