Paws and Claws: World Rabies Day 2021 a reminder of the threat
by Cindy Anderson, DVM, Animal Care Clinic
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) celebrated the 15th anniversary of World Rabies Day in late September 2021. When only up to three cases of rabies are reported in the United States yearly, it is easy to become complacent and forget the threat is real.
According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 80 to 100 dogs and more than 300 cats are infected annually with rabies and have the potential to expose an unknowing public. These are most likely unvaccinated cats and dogs that are infected by wildlife.
Rabies is a fatal viral zoonosis. All mammals are believed to be susceptible to the disease and it is usually transmitted from animals through bites. The incubation period for rabies can range from three weeks to six months and it is communicable through salivary shedding of the rabies virus.
Clinical signs of rabies are variable and include trouble swallowing, lack of interest in food, cranial nerve deficits, abnormal behavior, ataxia, paralysis, altered vocalization and seizures. Progression to death is rapid and there is currently no known effective antiviral drug.
Rabies prevention starts with the animal owner. All dogs, cats and ferrets should be vaccinated against rabies. Pet owners can reduce the possibility of pets being exposed to rabies by not letting them roam outside. Spaying and neutering may help reduce the tendency for that to happen.
To reduce the risk of exposure to rabies from wildlife, do not feed or water your pets outside. Doing so could attract wildlife and strays. Also, keep your garbage securely covered as the open cans again will attract wildlife and strays. Enjoy wild animals from a distance and teach children to never handle unfamiliar animals. Bat-proofing your home in the fall and winter also is very useful.
Visiting your veterinarian for regular vaccines is the most effective way to protect your pets, but always keep a watchful eye on them. We never know what our furry friends may get into.
Contact the staff at Animal Care Clinic, located at 926 W. Grand River Ave., in Williamston; 517-655-5551; with any questions or concerns.
Cindy Anderson, DVM, is a graduate of MSU Veterinary College (1992) and has practiced veterinary medicine for over 28 years. She traveled to Italy, New Zealand and Manitoba before establishing her own clinic in Sault Ste. Marie, Mich. Dr. Cindy took over duties at the Animal Care Clinic in October 2019 and now spends the majority of her time in the Lower Peninsula helping animals and their owners.
