Rabies After Vaccination: Understanding the Risks

Rabies After Vaccination: Low Risk, Not Impossible

While the rabies vaccine is highly effective, it does not offer 100% guaranteed protection against the virus. A vaccinated dog can still contract rabies, though the chances are significantly reduced. This critical understanding underscores the importance of vaccination while also emphasizing the need for caution in potential exposure scenarios.

Vaccination remains the most effective method to prevent rabies in dogs. However, even vaccinated dogs require careful attention if they are exposed to an animal suspected of having rabies. It is crucial to remember that rabies is almost always fatal once clinical symptoms begin to appear.

Rabies Transmission & Symptoms

Rabies is a life-threatening viral disease that affects the central nervous system of mammals. Understanding how it spreads and what symptoms to look for is vital for all dog owners.

Transmission

The primary method of rabies transmission is through the bite of an infected animal. This occurs when the virus, present in the saliva of a rabid animal, enters the bloodstream of another animal or human.

Contact with the saliva or brain/spinal tissue of an infected animal, whether dead or alive, can also transmit the virus if it enters the eyes, nose, mouth, or an open cut. This highlights the danger of handling deceased wildlife without proper protection.

Symptoms in Dogs

Once the rabies virus reaches the brain, symptoms begin to manifest. These can vary but often include a range of neurological and behavioral changes. According to Fayetteville Vet and PetVet Care Centers, common symptoms in dogs include:

• Behavioral changes: This can range from uncharacteristic aggression to unusual depression or unprovoked attacks.
• Loss of appetite or difficulty eating/drinking: The virus can affect the ability to swallow.
• Overreacting to touch, sound, or light: Animals may become hypersensitive to external stimuli.
• Staggering, falling, eventual paralysis: As the virus progresses, it impairs motor functions.
• Biting or licking the exposure wound site: Dogs may obsessively attend to the area where they were bitten.

Symptom Onset (Incubation Period)

The incubation period is the time between exposure to the rabies virus and the appearance of symptoms. In most cases, dogs will begin to show signs of the disease within two weeks of exposure.

However, symptoms can take several months to appear in some instances, as noted by Fayetteville Vet. This variability makes vaccination even more critical, as an infected animal can begin transmitting the virus approximately 10 days before any symptoms become visible. Once symptoms appear, the animal typically dies within 7-10 days, according to PetVet Care Centers.

Post-Vaccination Reactions vs. Rabies

It is important for dog owners to distinguish between the rare but serious symptoms of rabies and the more common, usually mild, reactions that can occur after vaccination.

Vaccine Side Effects

After a rabies vaccination, some dogs may experience low-grade brain inflammation, as indicated by Source 2. This is a known, though uncommon, side effect of the vaccine.

The symptoms associated with vaccine reactions are typically mild, temporary, and distinct from the severe, progressive signs of full-blown rabies. Common vaccine reactions include:

• Lethargy
• Mild fever
• Soreness or swelling at the injection site

These reactions usually resolve within a day or two. If you notice any severe or prolonged reactions after your dog's vaccination, it is always best to contact your veterinarian.

Rabies Prevention & Control

Preventing rabies in dogs relies heavily on consistent vaccination and responsible pet ownership practices.

Vaccination Schedule

Rabies vaccination is considered a core vaccine, meaning it is required for all dogs and puppies, according to PetMD. This is a crucial step in protecting individual pets and public health.

It is essential to follow your veterinarian's recommended schedule for the initial puppy series and subsequent booster shots. The frequency of booster vaccinations (e.g., every one or three years) depends on the specific vaccine used and local regulations.

Exposure Protocol (Regardless of Vaccination Status)

If your dog is suspected of being exposed to a rabid animal, immediate action is necessary, regardless of their vaccination status.

• Contact your veterinarian and local health unit immediately. They will provide specific instructions based on the exposure circumstances and local regulations.
• Follow all instructions regarding quarantine. Fayetteville Vet states that any dog that has bitten a person must be quarantined for 10 days, regardless of its vaccination status. This is to observe for the development of rabies symptoms and prevent potential transmission.
• Avoid direct contact with wildlife or stray animals. This reduces the risk of exposure for your dog and yourself. Wild animals, especially raccoons, bats, foxes, and skunks, are common carriers of rabies.

When to See a Vet

Prompt veterinary attention is crucial in cases of suspected rabies exposure or unusual symptoms.

You should contact your veterinarian immediately if:

• Your dog has any suspected exposure to a rabid animal, such as a bite or contact with its saliva.
• You observe any unusual neurological or behavioral changes in your dog, especially if they are unvaccinated or overdue for their rabies booster.
• Your dog experiences severe or prolonged reactions after a vaccination. While mild reactions are common, anything concerning warrants a vet visit.