Did you know that September 28 was World Rabies Day? This observance started in 2007 as a way to raise awareness of this disease. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) are one of the main groups fighting rabies in the United States. While you may think of the CDC as a group that focuses on diseases affecting humans, they work to eliminate rabies because it is transmitted to humans by animals.
Sometimes pet owners discount the danger of rabies. You may think that it doesn’t occur very often, or at least not in America. But according to the American Veterinary Medical Association, almost 6000 cases of rabies were reported in animals in the United States in 2014.
The reason we tend to think we don’t have to worry about this disease is because many of these cases are discovered in wild animals. Foxes, raccoons, skunks, and bats are the most common carriers. However, it only takes one encounter with a rabid animal to put you or your pet in danger.
The good news is that this disease is 100 percent preventable. Rabies vaccinations are the single most effective way to protect your pets. They also keep the disease from spreading to other animals or people. The shots are very affordable. Some veterinarians even offer discounted vaccines during promotional periods or certain months of the year.
Pets in South Carolina are required to have an up-to-date rabies shot. To learn more about this and other pet vaccinations, talk with your veterinarian. He or she can let you know about all the vaccines your pet needs to stay healthy.
If your pet needs a rabies vaccine or any other type of routine or emergency care, call Clover Vet. Our veterinary practice includes a full-service animal hospital. It’s the most complete care your pet can receive in Fort Mill, Lake Wylie, York, Rock Hill, and all of York County, SC.