Your pet, Your home, Your veterinarian

September 28, 2026 is World Rabies Day!
The theme for this year is "Stronger Together" against Rabies! Thank you for participating in making the world a safer place for all. Happy World Rabies Day.
What is Rabies? A viral disease which affects the nervous system and is fatal. 
​How can I prevent Rabies in my pet and keep my loved ones safe? The Rabies Vaccine (American Animal Hospital Association Info page) series and boosters are a very effective way to prevent Rabies in pets; also protecting the humans who come into contact with them. Please schedule an appointment in advance with us if your pet is not currently vaccinated against Rabies, or needs a booster. The State of North Carolina requires us to keep our pets protected against Rabies at all times. Is your pet Vaccinated against Rabies?
What should I do if my pet gets bit by wildlife or gets into a fight with another pet, or I suspect Rabies in my pet? Please contact a veterinarian immediately. Your pet needs attention, and a booster vaccine may be indicated. Rabies is also a reportable disease, requiring a rapid response. Please also contact your nearest Animal Shelter for more information if you see unusual wildlife activity in your area.  
How is it transmitted? Most commonly acquired through the saliva of an infected host, via an animal bite or scratches. In the USA, rabies predominantly occurs in wild animals such as skunks, raccoons, coyotes, bats and foxes. Humans and pets can become infected by coming in contact with an infected host. 
Who is affected? Pets and humans, among other warm blooded mammals. (250 cases of Animal Rabies were reported in North Carolina alone in 2024, AVMA)
What is its presentation? Rabies appears mainly in two forms, dumb (profound depressed mental state and other uncharacteristic behaviors) OR furious (aggression, excitement, difficulty swallowing, seizures, to name a few); once signs of the disease become apparent, the disease is fatal.
Is there any treatment available? Currently, there is no treatment available for this deadly disease. 
Traveling with your pet? Please carry your pet's required travel documents and rabies tag with you at all times. Please contact a USDA accredited Veterinarian for more information as early before travel as possible. Download your AVMA Travel information brochure here. 
Remember that prevention is better than (no)cure when it comes to this deadly disease.
(Please do visit the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) info page to learn more).