In honor of World Rabies Day on September 28th, Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region would like to raise awareness about the world’s deadliest viral disease and remind our community of the importance of keeping your pets current on their vaccinations. Making sure your pet is vaccinated is one of the most important duties of a responsible pet owner.
Dangers:
Rabies is a deadly yet preventable viral disease. It is transmitted to humans and animals through bites or scratches of infected animals. The virus primarily targets the central nervous system, causing severe brain damage and resulting in death if untreated before symptoms appear.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, around 4,000 animal rabies cases are reported each year in the U.S., with more than 90% occurring in wildlife like bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes. Each year, 60,000 Americans receive medical care following a potential rabies exposure. Unfortunately, all it takes is one bite or scratch from an infected animal to an unvaccinated pet or person to be fatal.
Not only do vaccinations help keep your pet safe and help prevent infectious diseases, but they can also prevent the spread of diseases that can pass from animals to humans. In the case of rabies, a vaccination is not only a good idea, it’s the law.
Prevention:
Rabies prevention efforts by veterinarians, wildlife managers, and public health officials have made human cases of rabies in the U.S. uncommon. Each year, veterinarians vaccinate over 40 million cats and dogs, greatly lowering the chances of rabies transmission to people and pets.
Here are a few of the best ways you can help prevent rabies:
- Keep your pets up to date on their rabies vaccines.
- Avoid wildlife for both human and animal safety.
- Call Animal Law Enforcement to pick up stray pets.
- Washing bites or scratches immediately with soap and water.
- Seek medical care shortly after potential exposure.
HSPPR is here to help with low-cost vaccinations! If it’s time for your pet’s next round of vaccinations, please visit our website at hsppr.org/veterinary-services to schedule an appointment at one of our wellness clinics in Colorado Springs or Pueblo. Rabies vaccines are only $20 and are the first step to keeping your pet happy, healthy, and in their home.
