FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

A Word From... Dr. C.A. Heller III DVM

Rabies

Early in October a rabid dog was discovered in Summit county. The dog in question had previously been vaccinated for rabies, however it was thirteen months overdue for its booster. This dog lived on a farm and spent most of its time hunting and killing wildlife.

This just stresses how important rabies vaccination is. Rabies is a viral disease that is harbored in warm blooded mammals. The most common wildlife that are known to harbor the rabies virus are skunks, raccoons, foxes and bats. Infected animals spread the virus through bites or scratches with other animals or people. After a variable incubation period the virus migrates to the brain and causes symptoms. Symptoms are most often neurological, an animal may become overly aggressive or it may become stuporous. Infected animals always die, there is no treatment.

As a result of this serious illness, one must always keep their pets vaccines up to date. All dogs and cats initially get a one year rabies vaccine and the subsequent ones are good for three years. Rabies vaccines also can be given to ferrets, sheep, cattle and horses. Since many of these types of animals are kept outside in pastures their exposure to wild animals is greater.

If you happen to see a wild animal out during the day, there is most likely something wrong with it. This is due to the fact that most wildlife are most active during the night. As a result, they may be seen in the early morning and at dusk, but not normally during other daylight hours. Do not attempt to handle any sick wild animal, and steer your pets clear of these situations as well.

In closing make sure to keep your pets vaccines current. If you own any livestock that are outside alot it maybe worthwhile to consider having them protected as well. This will not only keep your pets healthy but while also provide a buffer between infected wildlife and us humans.

Have a safe and rabies free New Year!

Sincerely

C.A. Heller III, DVM
Animal Care Clinic

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