Rabies in your Pets
There are about as many misconceptions about Rabies, in
the United States, as there are plans
among our politicians for resolving the national debt. It is way beyond the
scope of this short article to cover all of your questions but let me give you
some really solid facts. During 2011
there were 49 states and Puerto Rico that reported 6,031 rabid animals to the
Center of Disease Control. There were a
total of 6 rabies cases reported to the CDC in humans, 3 of which were variants
acquired outside of the United States.
Of all the animal cases 92% were in wildlife, with raccoons, skunks, and
bats making up about 83% of the total.
Although I would really love to tell you that rabies has
been totally eradicated in domestic animals, it is not true. We have made huge strides in the last 30 or
40 years, here in the United States, but
we still have work to do. It is
imperative that you visit your veterinarian regularly so that your pets will
remain protected. If not treated in a
timely fashion rabies is an absolutely fatal disease. It is easy for us to
become complacent since we just don't see a huge number of rabies cases, but I
have seen first hand the problems associated with non-vaccinated pets that have
tangled with wildlife.
The current killed virus vaccinations used in domestic
animals in the United States are extremely protective and safe. Don't dare risk a potential life threatening
situation. Keep your domestic pets and farm animals appropriately vaccinated. When you go by for your rabies vaccination
have your veterinarian take a quick look at your pet. You will be surprised what a wealth of
information your veterinarian will supply.
Our information is not intended to replace the advice of your veterinarian. Do not use this information for diagnostic purposes. Always take your pet to your veterinarian to obtain a diagnosis and course of treatment.
Our information is not intended to replace the advice of your veterinarian. Do not use this information for diagnostic purposes. Always take your pet to your veterinarian to obtain a diagnosis and course of treatment.
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