By Natalie Pons, Office Manager at Pawsitivity Pet Services
Although it is not ideal thinking about rabies, a key aspect of responsible pet ownership is ensuring our pets are protected from harm. According to the Virginia Department of Health, “The Code of Virginia requires that all dogs and cats receive a rabies vaccine prior to attaining 4 months of age (§ 3.2-6521). A licensed veterinarian or a licensed veterinary technician under the immediate and direct supervision of a veterinarian must administer the vaccine” (Virginia Department of Health Office of Epidemiology).
You should schedule a visit with your veterinarian annually to ensure your pet stays compliant with rabies vaccination requirements.
What is Rabies?
According to the CDC, Rabies is a fatal viral disease that can be spread to people and animals through bites/scratches of an infected animal. The virus mainly affects the central nervous system which leads to brain disease and/or death if treatment is not started prior to the onset of symptoms (CDC). The best way to prevent your pet from contracting Rabies, is by ensuring you vaccinate your pet following the proper protocols (Virginia Department of Health Office of Epidemiology).
Protocol for Dogs and Cats
Dogs and cats must obtain an initial rabies vaccination prior to 4 months of age. After this vaccination, an additional vaccination must be given within a year. Once the dog or cat has had the two vaccinations, a 3 or 4 year vaccine approved by the USDA is used (Virginia Department of Health Office of Epidemiology).
Specifically for dogs, a license will be issued with the rabies vaccination and this must be worn at all times when your pet is not on your property. For more information regarding dog licensing, check out our blog regarding all things pet safety.
Protocol for Exposure to Rabies
If your immunized dog or cat is exposed to a suspected or proven rabid animal, you should contact your veterinarian immediately. Dogs or cats who have been exposed should receive a booster dose of vaccine and be confined for 45 days for observation. A veterinarian should observe the pet and, if the signs suggest rabies, the pet should be humanely put down and tested for rabies (Virginia Department of Health Office of Epidemiology).
If you are unsure whether or not your pet has come in contact with a rabid animal, it is always best to contact your veterinarian immediately and seek guidance from them for next steps.
Where to get your Pet Vaccinated
Of course you can always schedule to have your pet vaccinated for rabies at your veterinarian’s office. Additionally, Loudoun County Animal Services frequently has events where you can get low-cost services for your pets, including the rabies vaccination. Events are held at 42225 Adoption Drive, Leesburg, VA 20175. No appointments are necessary!
For more information regarding the events and other low-cost services, please visit: https://www.loudoun.gov/3906/Low-Cost-Resources
Next Steps
In summary, a huge part of being a responsible pet owner is ensuring that your pet is protected from diseases, especially rabies. Not only is it responsible, it is also the law! Make sure to speak with your veterinarian regarding proper scheduling for vaccinations and/or visit Loudoun County Animal Services’ website for more information regarding requirements and resources.
All the best in your responsible pet ownership journey!
Sources:
Virginia Department of Health Office of Epidemiology. “Virginia Guidelines for Rabies Prevention and Control.” Loudoun County Virginia, June 2016, www.loudoun.gov/DocumentCenter/View/15465/Virginia-Rabies-Guidelines.
CDC. “About Rabies.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention, 21 June 2024, www.cdc.gov/rabies/about/index.html.
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