Rabies is a deadly disease that can affect both humans and animals, including our beloved pets. Therefore, it is important to take preventive measures against this virus. Our vets at Clarksville, can guide you on the most efficient rabies vaccine schedule for your dog and highlight the significance of following it strictly.
What is rabies?
Rabies is a viral disease that poses a serious threat to all mammals, including humans, domestic animals, and wildlife. The virus is transmitted through contact with the saliva or brain tissue of an infected animal.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for rabies, and once symptoms appear, it is almost always fatal. To prevent the spread of the disease, most states require dogs to be vaccinated against rabies by law.
If your dog is not up to date on their vaccinations and is bitten by an infected animal, your pet may be quarantined for an extended period of time or even euthanized to protect other animals and people. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure your dog's vaccinations are always current.
How often does my dog need a rabies shot?
The schedule for mandatory rabies vaccinations for dogs varies depending on the state of residence. Typically, puppies receive their initial vaccination between 14 and 16 weeks of age, followed by a booster shot after a year. Subsequently, dogs should get a rabies booster every 1 to 3 years. Your veterinarian is the best person to advise you on how frequently your pup needs booster vaccinations.
Why are rabies boosters required?
Vaccinations tell the body how to recognize the disease and create an immune response that will target and destroy the virus should it enter your dog's body.
Over time, this immune response wanes and isn't as effective. Booster vaccines re-build your dog's immunity to ensure they stay protected.
If you're worried about how much a rabies shot for dogs will cost, contact your vet to get an estimate and find out about payment options.
Can a vaccinated dog get rabies?
Rabies vaccinations are very effective, but no vaccine can guarantee 100% protection. So while the risk of a vaccinated dog contracting rabies is extremely low, it is still a possibility.
The best prevention is to keep up to date on your dog's rabies vaccines over the course of their life.
Are there any side effects of the vaccine?
It is typical for dogs to experience some tenderness, fatigue, and sluggishness around the vaccination area after receiving the rabies vaccine. These symptoms usually subside within a day or two and are completely normal. However, if the side effects persist for more than two days or become more severe, it's advisable to seek advice from your veterinarian.
In rare cases, the injection site may remain firm and swollen for several weeks. If the swelling persists beyond three weeks or becomes more significant, it's time to take your furry friend to the vet.
Although side effects are uncommon, if you observe any of the following symptoms in your dog after vaccination, contact your veterinarian immediately:
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Hives
- Swelling of the muzzle and around the face, neck, or eyes
- Severe coughing or difficulty breathing, and even collapse.
Overall, the rabies vaccine is extremely safe and an important factor in maintaining your pet's overall health. Contact your vet if you feel your dog is acting weird after a rabies shot.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.