Are You And Your Pet Protected From Racoon Rabies?
Rabies is a contagious and fatal disease caused by a virus that attacks the brain and spinal cord. It is transmitted in the saliva of an infected animal, usually through a bite or scratch. It can also be transmitted if infected saliva contacts an open wound, eyes, nose or mouth. Humans can be treated for rabies if immediate medical attention is received. Once symptoms appear - this can occur anywhere from ten days to a year - it's too late to begin treatment and death will inevitably result.
Protecting Your Pet
If an unvaccinated animal contracts rabies, it has no chance for survival. A standard rabies vaccination will protect your pet against this deadly disease. If your pet has never been vaccinated against rabies, see your veterinarian immediately.
Depending on the vaccine used, your pet needs a rabies booster shot every one to three years to maintain an effective level of immunity. If your pet has been vaccinated against rabies in the past, but you are not sure that your pet's vaccination is still effective, call your veterinary clinic to find out if your pet is due for its next rabies vaccination.
What to Do
- Have your pets and animals vaccinated. It's the only way to keep them safe from rabies and prevent them from potentially passing it on to you.
- Avoid stray animals and animals you don't know to be vaccinated.
- Keep away from wild animals no matter how cute or friendly they appear - there's no way of knowing if they're carrying the virus.
- Make your home inhospitable to raccoons. Urban raccoons in particular are always on the look-out for warmth or food. Keep them away by capping the chimney, closing any holes in the attic, garage or garden shed, and ensuring that garbage cans and composters are securely fastened and inaccessible.
- If you or a family member is exposed to rabies:
- Wash the infected area right away with soap and water. Rinse well.
- Clean the area with an antiseptic.
- Get medical help immediately.
- Rabies is treatable through a series of vaccine injections into the arm.
- If your pet or animal has any unusual or unknown bite wound or abscess, or has been in a fight with another animal, you should see your veterinarian immediately.