The fear of contracting rabies dates back thousands of years. The word rabies is thought to originate from the latin word rabere or “rage” and ancient Sanskrit, rabhas translated to “violence”. Throughout history humans have been informed that all mammals including skunks, raccoons, fox, bats, dogs, cattle, horses…are potential carriers of rabies. However there are still misconceptions about the virus. Here are three facts pertaining to rabies.
Rabies virus transmits through direct contact. While bites are the most common action of the virus being spread, there are other modalities of transmission. Rabies spread from the carriers saliva. If a rabies carrier directly gets their saliva in an open wound, scratch, abrasions or in the mucous membranes within the mouth/eyes/nose rabies may be transmitted.
Vaccinating cats and dogs against rabies is not a “one & done”. Most cats and dogs that have been vaccinated against rabies as part of their initial vaccination need follow ups/boosters every 1-3 years on average. Even if your cat or dog stays indoors they should be vaccinated against rabies; no-one plans for a rabid bat to be flying around their house. To protect your cats and dogs against rabies ensure their shots are up to date.
Not all members of the wildlife family are susceptible to rabies. Birds, reptiles, amphibians and fish do not carry rabies. Rabies affects only mammals.
Rabies can be traced back thousands of years. Rabies can be deadly but avoided. Bites are not the only vehicle for rabies transmission. Indoor and outdoor cats and dogs should be vaccinated. Non mammalian life (birds, reptiles, fish, insects, etc) do not carry rabies.
For more information contact the wildlife professional at Critter Evictors!