Our Pet Tips

Is Your Pet Protected Against Rabies?

We have had a string of rabid raccoons in our area, so now is as good a time as any to remind pet owners on the dangers of rabies and the importance of the rabies vaccine.

Rabies is an RNA virus of the rhabdovirus family and is a viral infection that is spread mainly from the bite of an infected animal. The rabies virus infects the central nervous system and is 100 percent fatal to dogs and cats—there is no treatment available.

Common carriers of this feared disease include bats, raccoons, skunks and foxes. The risk of rabies runs very high in dogs, however cats, even indoor ones, should be vaccinated—bats can get into a home and pose a threat to our indoor pets.

Fortunately, there is a vaccine available to protect your pet from this deadly disease. Rabies vaccines are not only extremely important for pets and pet owners, it’s also a legal requirement! We encourage you to ask our staff any questions you may have about rabies—for more information or to schedule your cat or dog for a vaccination, please contact us at 417-739-4090.