Animal Talk

A recent case of rabies has been reported in Twinsburg, Ohio, by the Ohio Department of Health Laboratory.  The 3 year-old Siberian Husky was an outdoor dog who often hunted wild animals on their rural property. The dog became ill after the owner noticed a bite wound on the front leg with signs of a fever, severe ataxia and excessive salivation. 

Unfortunately the dog was 13 months past due on vaccinations and died within 48 hours of becoming ill. Tests confirmed the presence of rabies virus which has been circulating in raccoons in that area. The owners and six people from the veterinary hospital had to receive post rabies exposure treatment. Another dog and two cats from the same household were current on vaccination but will remain in quarantine for  six months. 

This case precedes the first human case of rabies in 50 years of a woman in South Carolina who died Dec. 19 after being bitten by a bat according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. These cases in animals and humans should remind us to remain vigilant when vaccinating our pets. 

In Illinois pets may receive their first rabies vaccine at 12-16 weeks of age followed by a booster in a year. Older vaccinated animals may receive boosters every three years depending on exposure. Many pet owners feel that their indoor pets are not at risk for rabies.

Illinois has more cases of rabies in bats and skunks than the raccoon outbreak on the East Coast of the United States. Bats can be found nesting in chimneys and attics of homes where they can expose indoor pets by biting. Avoid contact with bats and any outdoor animal like skunks or racoons who may harbor the rabies virus.

Please see your veterinarian to maintain your pets' rabies vaccinations and protect your family against this lethal disease.