Each year, World Rabies Day in September reminds us of the importance of protecting pets and people from one of the most serious diseases in the world. Rabies is a viral disease that affects the brain and nervous system. Once the symptoms start showing, rabies is likely fatal. The good news is that rabies is preventable through vaccination. PetNest Animal Hospital administers rabies vaccines to keep pets, families, and communities safe.
What Exactly Is Rabies?
Rabies is a viral disease that spreads through the saliva of infected animals, most often through bites. Once the virus enters the body, it travels to the brain and causes severe neurological symptoms. While rabies is rare in vaccinated pets, it still exists in wildlife such as bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes, meaning unvaccinated pets are at risk if exposed.
Rabies affects the central nervous system, and symptoms can appear weeks to months after exposure. Rabies symptoms usually start subtly and then progress.
- Sudden changes in behavior (fearfulness, aggression, or irritation)
- Difficulty swallowing or excessive drooling
- Unsteady movements, paralysis, or seizures
- Sensitivity to light and sound
- Progressive weakness leading to coma and death
Prevention is the only reliable protection from rabies.
The Rabies Vaccination
Vaccination against rabies is highly recommended, and it’s legally required for dogs and cats in the state of Texas (as well as most states and many other countries). Getting your pet vaccinated against rabies matters because this shot:
- Protects Your Pet: Vaccination keeps your pets safe if they are ever exposed to rabid wildlife.
- Protects Your Family: Rabies is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted from pets to people. Vaccination keeps your household safe.
- Prevents Community Spread: By vaccinating pets, we reduce the overall risk of rabies outbreaks in our Frisco community.
- Meets Legal Requirements: Proof of vaccination is often required for licensing, travel, boarding, and grooming.
Tips for Protecting Your Pet From Rabies
The biggest tip is to keep your pet current on their rabies vaccination. Puppies and kittens usually receive their rabies vaccine around 16-18 weeks. Boosters are generally given annually after that initial shot, although some veterinarians may administer a 3-year rabies vaccine at their discretion.
While vaccines are the strongest defense, pet owners can take additional steps to minimize rabies exposure. Keep pets indoors or supervise them outside to reduce contact with wildlife. Never handle stray animals or wildlife yourself, especially if they are acting strangely. Instead, report unusual wildlife activity to local authorities. This way, any wildlife will not transmit rabies to you and potentially your pet.
Effective Vaccines for Dogs and Cats in Frisco, TX
Rabies may be rare in vaccinated pets, but it remains a serious threat without protection. Vaccination is the safest, most effective way to protect pets and communities from this fatal disease. PetNest Animal Hospital has rabies vaccines in Frisco for pets from Plano, Little Elm, Frisco, and The Colony. Is your pet up to date on their rabies vaccine? Schedule a vaccination appointment at our animal hospital.