Just the word rabies conjures up memories of the “Old Yeller” movie with a fatal heart-breaking outcome. Unfortunately, this disease isn’t just associated from a movie years ago but is very much alive and with us today. Bats, raccoons, skunks and foxes are the principal vectors or carrying agents of the disease. A bite or scratch from these animals can expose our dogs and cats to any of the strains of the virus. Any warm-blooded animal or mammal is especially at risk.

The virus is present in the saliva of an infected animal. Through a bite, scratch (or seven squeeze if up close) the virus travels from muscle to nerve tissue, or even directly to the nerve tissue. Aggression and/or paralysis are the two most common clinical signs. Biting at the wound, anxiety or changes in voice tone may be exhibited. Inability to swallow, fever and hypersalivation may also be observed.

Pre-exposure vaccination is key to protection from this fatal disease in animals as well as people at risk. Skunks and raccoons are nocturnal and should not be out in broad daylight. Bats may become more active at dusk but also are generally absent in the light of day. Prompt consultation with a veterinarian is recommended if your pet has been in contact with these animals (esp. during the day). The veterinarian may recommend a rabies booster.

A normal quarantine observation period for a vaccinated pet that has bitten someone is 10 days. Should the pet die within this time, the brain must be immediately sent to the state lab for rabies examination. If an unvaccinated animal is exposed to a known rabid animal, the quarantine period may be six months or longer.

Post-exposure rabies antisera has improved through the years and is available for humans should an unvaccinated person be exposed. Washing of the wound with an immediate physician consult would be recommended.

Protect your pet by keeping their rabies vaccinations current. Some rabies vaccines are only labeled for one-year protection. If it has been three years or more since your pet’s last visit to the vet, you are overdue!

Steven E. Elwood

doctor of veterinary medicine

Albert Lea Animal Hospital

Albert Lea