RABIES
Rabies is a fatal viral infection of the central nervous system that can affect all mammals, including
humans. It is transmitted from animal to animal and from animal to man primarily through the bite of
an infected animal. The rabies virus travels in the nerves from the site of the bite to the brain and
spinal cord. Once any clinical sign of rabies appear, death is inevitable.
Rabid animals undergo personality changes during the course of the disease; these changes may
include aggression and biting or increased friendliness and affection.
The most common carriers of rabies are wild animals such as skunks, raccoons, and bats, however
cats are the most likely transmitters to humans as they often roam free and are bitten by wild
animals that they get in tussles with. The occasional dog or cat (and person) has been exposed to
rabies via contact with a rabid migratory bat.
Puppies should be vaccinated against rabies at four months of age. The absolute minimum age is 16
weeks. If in doubt about the exact age of a puppy, wait until tooth eruption indicates that the
patient is at least 16 weeks of age.
Dogs who are under one year of age when they receive a rabies vaccination will be protected for
only one year. The next rabies vaccination must be given one year after the initial one. Dogs who
are over one year of age when they receive a rabies vaccination will be protected for three years. A
booster vaccination should be given every three years after that.
For all practical purposes, rabies, in humans and animals, is not treatable; it is a death warrant. In
order to control the spread of rabies, all pets must be vaccinated routinely. Rabies vaccination of
dogs is required by state law in most states in the US.
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