Everything You Need to Know About Essential Rabies Vaccines in Dogs

by DCC Pets Veterinary Hospital

Let's face it, rabies is a deadly disease for animals. Although there are regulations and programs today to prevent rabies in animals, it has not been completely eradicated and looms over our beloved pets as the ever-present shadow of pain and death. 

 

Rabies is caused by the virus of the genus Lysavirus. Since all mammals are susceptible to the fatal effects of this disease including humans, it is not only beneficial for our pets to keep up with the vaccinations but also helpful for us towards reducing the chances of transmission from our canine companions.

 

When it comes to our pooches, we cannot be more careful in case they catch the rabies virus on one of their scavenging adventures or playdates with their friends. It is therefore extremely necessary to get our dogs vaccinated regularly. 

 

Pathogenesis of Rabies

Transmission of rabies usually occurs through a bite or scratch from an infected animal. Although the incubation period is highly variable and dependent on a multitude of factors, it is generally 3 to 12 weeks. Once it is inoculated into a body (yours or your pet’s), it enters the peripheral nervous system (PNS) and slowly but surely gains entry into your central nervous system (CNS). And once it gets your nervous system down, it progresses to wreak havoc in your body and serve you the killing blow! 

 

Signs of Rabies in Dogs

During the initial days, as in the first 2 to 3 days after the virus infects your dog, they will go through an excitatory phase during which they might suddenly become vicious. Their reaction may range from restless and irritable to high sensitivity to light or sound. After 1 to 7 days of this, they might become paralytic - the paralysis will slowly tend to spread from their limbs to their head and neck. The paralytic phase easily lasts 2 to 4 days, which leads to the final stage - your dog dying from respiratory failure. The course of rabies in your dog typically last from 3 to 8 days.

 

Diagnosis and Treatment

There is no diagnosis or treatment known for dogs, infected with rabies. The fatality rate of rabies is nearly 100%in all mammals.

 

Now all this sounds a bit too gory, doesn't it?

 

The objective of all of this is not to scare you, but to ensure that you know what might happen to your fur baby if you do not vaccinate them against this deadly disease on a regular basis.

 

Schedule for Rabies Vaccine in Dogs

 

The rabies vaccine for dog is a core vaccine. Your dog should receive his first rabies shot when they are are 12 weeks old. No matter what, you should definitely not delay more than 16 weeks of their age to get them their first dose of immunisation against this deadly illness. This is followed by a booster shot a year later.

 

There is a difference in opinion amongst veterinarians, regarding the interval between two rabies booster shots. While some say that it can be between 1 and 3 years, others unanimously agree that your dog should be vaccinated for rabies once every year which is actually a safe situation to be in. No matter the varying opinions, if your dog comes into contact with a potentially rabies infected bid animal, you should immediately consult your veterinarian and put in an extra vaccine shot/ follow your vet’s advice - just be safe.

 

The rabies vaccine is extremely effective at protecting dogs against infections.

 

Side Effects of the Rabies Vaccine in Dogs

Other than the usual side effects, which include mild fever, tiredness, soreness at the injection site, and reduced levels of appetite and activity, some dogs could have an allergic reaction to being vaccinated against rabies. Extreme reactions also include vomiting. hives and facial swelling. FIf you feel your dog is having an allergic reaction to the rabies vaccine, consult your veterinarian immediately

 

Conclusion

So what's the verdict on getting your dog vaccinated regularly for rabies? It is a resounding yes?. To protect you and your dog from an unfortunate predicament that is easily avoidable, get your dog vaccinated once every year against rabies. 

 

We, at DCC Pet Hospital, care about your pets' health as much as you! For this purpose we provide expert consultation when it comes to vaccination for your fur babies. 

 

Check out the website or call us today on (+91) 9311560101.

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Created on Nov 25th 2021 21:21. Viewed 217 times.

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