Many times we take for granted that past diseases are controlled in our current generation. One of these past diseases is rabies. Although it is rarely heard about, it does still exist in the United States and more so in other areas of the world. This disease is primarily spread by the bite wound of an affected animal during the “rabid phase” of the disease. The virus that contaminates their saliva enters through wounds in the skin or through mucous membranes, then spreads throughout the nervous system and eventually affects the brain and is almost always fatal. What most people do not realize is that the foaming at the mouth version of rabies which we all envision when we think of this disease is actually the less common form. Many times the affected animal will become weak in the back end and eventually becomes paralyzed from the back end ascending upwards. They may not actually be salivating, but more neurologic and mentally dull. Many unsuspecting people have become inadvertently exposed to the deadly virus as the animal did not “appear rabid”. Bats can actually leave the live virus in their guano and cave spelunkers have contracted rabies just by coming into contact with this guano.
Luckily, there are effective vaccines for both animals and humans that can prevent the disease before it spreads throughout our neurological systems. These vaccines are highly effective and when administered by a veterinarian often last for years, but needs to be given BEFORE the exposure of the virus. Dogs and cats as well as livestock should be vaccinated on a regular basis to keep this deadly virus in check.
Just this month two dogs have tested positive for Rabies in Colorado. An additional 41 cases have been verified in wildlife in the area as well. The one dog was attacked by a rabid skunk. Both the dog and the owner is being treated. Colorado has seen an usually higher number of rabid skunks this year. It only takes one affected animal hitching a ride under a semi tractor trailer to be on our doorstep within a few hours.
Please check your pets’ vaccination status and have their rabies immunization boostered if they are overdue. It may not only save their life, but yours or a loved family member as well.
Rabies spreads primarily through the bite of rabid animals. Here are some tips to avoid rabies
• Never touch or feed wild or stray animals. Don’t leave pet food outdoors. If you need help with a sick or orphaned animal, contact a wildlife rehabilitator. Contact a nearby animal shelter if you encounter a lost or stray dog or cat.
• Vaccinate your pets. Use a licensed veterinarian, and make sure you keep up with pets’ booster shots.
• Leash your dog. Protect dogs and wildlife by keeping your pet on a leash while walking or hiking.
• Keep cats and other pets inside at night. Keep dogs within your sight (in a fenced yard or on leash) when they are outside during the day.
• Call your veterinarian promptly if you believe your pet has been exposed to a wild animal.
• Vaccinate pastured animals annually. Have a licensed veterinarian administer an approved large-animal rabies vaccine.
• Bat-proof your home. Learn how at this Centers for Disease Control and Prevention web page.