Rabies is a potentially fatal disease. The best way to protect your dog and your family is to have them vaccinated against rabies. Today, our Los Angeles veterinarians explain more about this important vaccine, including how frequently your dog should get a booster shot.
What is rabies?
Rabies is a viral disease that can affect both humans and animals. The virus is transmitted via direct contact with the saliva or brain tissue of an infected animal. In people, this disease is usually transmitted through being bitten by a rabid animal.
Rabies is a serious disease. There are no tests that can be done on a living person or animal to tell if they are infected and once symptoms appear the disease is almost always fatal.
The majority of states require dog vaccinations. If your dog is not up to date on their rabies vaccine and is bitten by an animal, state law may require that your pet be quarantined for an extended period of time or even euthanized in order to protect other animals and people.
This is why it's essential to keep your dog's vaccinations current. Click here to view the appropriate vaccination schedule for a dog.
How often does my dog need a rabies shot?
The required rabies vaccination schedule for dogs varies by state. In most states, your puppy will receive their first vaccination between the ages of 14 and 16 weeks, followed by a booster shot one year later.
After that, your dog should receive a rabies booster every 1-3 years, depending on state law and the type of vaccine used.
Your veterinarian is the best source for information on how frequently your puppy should receive booster vaccinations.
Why are rabies boosters required?
Vaccines teach the body how to recognize disease and mount an immune response that will target and destroy the virus if it enters your dog's body.
Over time, this immune response wanes and isn't as effective. Booster vaccines re-build your dog's immunity to ensure they stay protected.
Can a vaccinated dog get rabies?
Rabies vaccinations are highly effective, but no vaccine can provide complete protection. So, while the chances of a vaccinated dog contracting rabies are extremely low, it is still possible.
The best prevention is to keep up to date on your dog’s rabies vaccines over the course of their life.
Are there any side effects of the vaccine?
Following vaccination, many dogs will experience mild discomfort or swelling at the injection site, as well as a slight fever and fatigue. This is completely normal and typically resolves within a day or two. If the side effects last more than two days or worsen, contact your veterinarian.
Occasionally, the injection site may remain firm and swollen for several weeks. If the swelling lasts more than three weeks or grows larger, it is time to take your dog to the vet.
Rarely, your dog may develop more serious side effects. These will typically occur within minutes to hours after receiving the vaccine and require immediate medical attention. If your dog experiences any of the following, you should bring them to the closest emergency vet right away:
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Hives
- Swelling of the muzzle and around the face, neck, or eyes
- Severe coughing or difficulty breathing, and even collapse.
Overall, the rabies vaccine is extremely safe and an important factor in maintaining your pet's overall health. If you feel your dog is acting weird after a rabies shot, contact your vet.
How much is a rabies vaccine for dogs?
The cost of a rabies vaccine for dogs can vary depending on the clinic and the veterinarian administering the vaccine. It is recommended to consult with your local veterinarian for specific pricing information and to schedule an appointment for your dog to receive the rabies vaccine.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.