Protect your Pet Against Rabies
 

 The threat of rabies may be as close as your back yard. Wild animals, (such as raccoons, skunks and bats) that thrive in developed areas are the most common carriers of rabies and the animals most likely to expose your pet to this deadly disease.

All mammals, including humans, are susceptible to rabies. The early stage of rabies are marked by abrupt changes in behavior in the animal, such as increased anxiety, depression, irritability or even more affectionate behavior. After clinical signs are observed, the animal usually dies within two to seven days.

There is no cure for rabies once your pet has exhibited clinical signs. The only proven method of control involves routine vaccinations of pets and control of stray dogs, cats and wildlife that can carry the disease. While local regulations in most communities require that dogs be protected against rabies, cats are as vulnerable and also require vaccination. In fact, more cats than dogs have contacted the disease in the last few years. Cats are at an increase for several reasons:

• Cats are more likely to roam at night and come in contact with rabid nocturnal wild animals
• Rural cats are more numerous than rural dogs.
• Even house cats that are occasionally outdoors are at risk through
exposure to other cats or wild animals.
• Because most cats are not vaccinated, they are vulnerable to rabies
infection.

Rabies vaccines are the only practical way to prevent the disease. Rabies vaccines have been used successfully for many years to protect dogs, cats, and other domestic animals. All vaccines available in the U.S. have been approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and provide at least one year of protection.

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