Although the rate of rabies in domestic animals has dramatically decreased over the past century, this disease remains one of the deadliest. A rabies infection attacks the nervous system and, once symptoms appear, it is almost always fatal. While rabies is rare in vaccinated pets, it continues to exist in wildlife and poses a real threat to unprotected animals. With World Rabies Day approaching on September 28, it’s the perfect time to raise awareness about the importance of rabies prevention. McMillin Animal Hospital administers the rabies vaccine as a part of protecting animal and human health.
What Is Rabies and How Is It Spread?
Rabies is caused by a virus that spreads through the saliva of infected animals, usually via bites. In the Pacific Northwest, wildlife such as bats, raccoons, and skunks are the most common carriers (bats specifically in Washington state). Because rabies affects the brain and spinal cord, it causes severe neurological problems that progress quickly. Unfortunately, once signs of rabies appear, the disease cannot be cured. Prevention through vaccination is the only protection.
Although rabies is uncommon in pets that are properly vaccinated, it’s important for pet owners to recognize the symptoms. Signs can include:
- Sudden behavioral changes, such as aggression, restlessness, or fearfulness
- Difficulty swallowing or excessive drooling
- Stumbling, weakness, or paralysis
- Seizures or uncoordinated movements
- Heightened sensitivity to light, sound, or touch
Showing these symptoms after possible exposure should be treated as an emergency. You should contact your pet’s veterinarian immediately for next steps.
Why Your Pet Should Stay Current on the Rabies Vaccine
Keeping your pet vaccinated against rabies protects your animal companion, as well as your family and community. The rabies vaccination matters because it:
- Prevents Fatal Disease: Rabies is almost always deadly, but entirely preventable with a simple vaccine.
- Protects People: Rabies is zoonotic, meaning it can spread from animals to humans. Vaccinating pets reduces this risk.
- Is Required by Law: In Washington state, rabies vaccination is required for all dogs and cats.
- Supports Public Health: Widespread vaccination prevents rabies outbreaks in pets and wildlife.
Ways to Reduce Rabies Risk in Pets
The rabies vaccine is the number one way to reduce rabies risk in pets. Puppies and kittens typically receive their first rabies vaccine at around 16–18 weeks of age. A rabies booster is given one year later. Afterward, depending on the vaccine used, a rabies shot is given every one or three years.
While vaccination is the cornerstone of rabies prevention, you can take other steps to keep your pets safe. Keep cats indoors and supervise dogs outdoors to reduce encounters with wildlife. Do not approach or handle wild animals, even if they appear tame or sick. Contact animal control if you see wildlife behaving strangely near your home.
Get Your Pet’s Rabies Vaccination in Orting, WA
Rabies is preventable and deadly without protection. By vaccinating your pets, you safeguard their lives and protect your family and local communities. McMillin Animal Hospital administers the rabies vaccine in Orting for dogs and cats from Puyallup, Sumner, Orting, and Bonney Lake areas. Is your pet current on their rabies vaccine? Contact us to schedule an appointment and keep your pets protected from this deadly disease.