What is Rabies?
Rabies is a viral disease caused by the Lyssavirus that attacks the central nervous system of all mammals, including humans. It is almost always fatal once clinical signs appear — there is no effective treatment after symptom onset, making rabies one of the deadliest diseases known. Worldwide, rabies causes approximately 59,000 human deaths annually, almost all from dog bites in regions with limited vaccination programs.
In North America, wildlife reservoirs (raccoons, skunks, bats, foxes) maintain the virus in the environment, which is why vaccination of domestic animals remains critical.
Symptoms
Rabies progresses through distinct stages:
Prodromal Phase (2–3 days)
- Behavioral changes (shy animals become bold, friendly animals become withdrawn)
- Fever
- Excessive licking or chewing at the bite wound
Furious Phase
- Extreme aggression and restlessness
- Hypersensitivity to light, sound, and touch
- Disorientation
- Seizures
- Attacking objects, animals, or people unprovoked
Paralytic Phase
- Progressive paralysis, starting at the bite site
- Dropped jaw ("dumb rabies")
- Inability to swallow (hydrophobia)
- Drooling
- Respiratory failure and death
The incubation period can range from 2 weeks to several months, making it a particularly insidious disease.
Transmission
Rabies is transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, typically via a bite wound. Less commonly, it can be transmitted through scratches or open wounds exposed to infected saliva. In North America, bats are the most common source of rabies transmission to domestic animals and humans, often through bites that may go unnoticed.
Why Vaccination is Required
Rabies vaccination is unique among animal vaccines because it is legally mandated in most jurisdictions worldwide, including throughout Canada and the United States. This legal requirement exists because:
- Rabies is fatal to both animals and humans
- Vaccinating pets creates a buffer zone between wildlife reservoirs and human populations
- Unvaccinated pets that bite someone may face mandatory quarantine or euthanasia
- Proof of vaccination is required for travel, boarding, and many rental agreements
Vaccination Schedule
- Puppies and kittens: First dose at 12–16 weeks of age
- Booster: One year after the first dose
- Subsequent boosters: Every 1–3 years, depending on the vaccine type and local regulations
- Legal requirement: Check your provincial or local laws for specific requirements
What Happens if Your Pet is Exposed
If your vaccinated pet is exposed to a potentially rabid animal:
- A booster vaccine is administered immediately
- The pet is observed for 45 days
If an unvaccinated pet is exposed:
- Immediate euthanasia may be recommended
- Alternatively, strict quarantine for 4–6 months under veterinary supervision
- This is another critical reason to keep vaccinations current
In Canada
In Canada, rabies vaccination requirements vary by province and municipality. Quebec requires rabies vaccination for dogs, and it is strongly recommended for cats. Bats are the primary wildlife vector in most of Canada. Any contact between a pet and a bat should be treated as a potential exposure.
