Preventative care is very important because it helps pets avoid various infections and diseases. Vaccinations will protect your pet from various life-threatening conditions such as rabies. At South Granville Animal Hospital, we have years of experience providing Creedmoor pet owners with rabies vaccinations.
What is Rabies?
Rabies is a disease that infects the central nervous system of mammals. The disease is usually in the saliva, which is why most transmissions occur through bites. Rabies can be transmitted to animals and humans alike. Getting your dog a rabies vaccine will not only protect your dog, but also you, your family, and other members of your community.
Rabies Symptoms
If your dog gets a bite from another animal, it is important to closely monitor their behavior and call your veterinarian if your dog has been infected with rabies. Symptoms to look out for include:
- Staggering
- Seizures
- Excessive drooling
- Foaming in the mouth
- Difficulty swallowing
- Difficulty breathing
- Fever
- Paralysis
Behaviors of Rabid Dogs
Some of the behavioral symptoms of rabid dogs include:
- Restlessness
- Irritability
- Aggression
- Uncharacteristically affectionate
- Your dog may tend to seek dark places over time because light, sound, and movement affect them
Furthermore, the rabies virus can stay in your dog's body for weeks or even months before the symptoms develop. In most cases, it takes 21 to 80 days. However, it can't take a longer or shorter period for the symptoms to develop.
It’s important to know that veterinarians cannot treat rabies after the symptoms develop. Therefore, it is important to call the veterinarian as soon as you notice a bite. The best way to manage rabies is to prevent it from developing in the first place through vaccinations. Be sure to walk your pet on a leash if you want to limit their contact with wild animals.
Rabies Vaccination
There are States which make it mandatory for pet owners to take the dogs for rabies vaccinations. Rabies shots are important because it protects your dog if it gets a bite or if the dog bites another animal with rabies. Rabies vaccination schedules for dogs include:
- One dose before or within 16 to 18 weeks of age.
- A second dose vaccination after one year.
- Booster vaccinations every three years.
Contact Our Veterinarian in Creedmoor for a Rabies Shot
South Granville Animal Hospital offers preventative care for pets in and around Creedmoor. We also offer emergency care and routine check-up services. Our experienced team uses innovative veterinary technology to provide your pet with the best care possible. For more information on the rabies vaccine or to schedule an appointment with our veterinarian, call us at .