Keeping your pet healthy and happy is the most important thing! September 28th marks World Rabies Day, giving folks an opportunity to learn more about the disease, how to prevent it, and steps to proper treatment if infected. Of course, we hope that your pet never has to deal with rabies – but it’s better to know the symptoms ahead of time so that you can act quickly, just in case! Below are four helpful tips to help you protect your furry friend from rabies:
- Vaccinations Are Vital
The best way to protect your beloved pet from rabies is to learn what rabies is in the first place! Rabies is a viral disease spread through saliva that directly affects the central nervous system of any warm-blooded animal (including us humans!). Once infected, an animal has a very short period of time to live, which makes knowing the warning signs that much more important. Every state has its own rabies law and you should be aware of what yours is. For example, in NY, all dogs, cats, and ferrets are required to get their first rabies shot at four months old. - Supervise Your Pets
If your pet enjoys spending time outdoors, keep a lookout for any other animals that may be lurking around! Cases of rabies in domestic pets average 400 to 500 per year and the disease is most often transmitted through bites from raccoons, bats, skunks and foxes. If your pet comes in from the outdoors with a suspicious wound, take them to the vet immediately. Your vet may suggest a rabies booster shot if you suspect your pet has come in contact with a rabid animal. - Feed Your Pet Indoors
Even if your furry friend enjoys romping around outside, be sure to keep them in a routine of eating inside. By doing so, you won’t attract unwanted wild animals into your yard with the enticing scent of pet food. Also, be sure to keep your outdoor trash covered and kept away from any potential rabid raccoons! The more preventative measures you take, the less likely you or your pet will ever encounter a rabid animal. - Be Wary of Wildlife
Whether it’s an injured animal or roadkill, your best bet is to stay clear. As compassionate as you may be towards that hobbling raccoon or fox in your backyard, leave it to the experts to deal with. Call animal control if you see suspicious wildlife rather than risk rabies. As cute as a fox may look, it’s not worth getting a close-up photo or trying to pet it!
Rabies is an awful and scary disease that can end in tragedy; your pet may end up quarantined, or worse. However, with regular vaccinations, supervised play time, and keeping food indoors, you should have nothing to worry about! Even if you live in a densely wooded area, you and your pet can certainly avoid a rabies scare. Of course, if you believe your pet has become infected, immediately take him or her to the vet to seek proper care and treatment