September 28th is World Rabies Day
What is Rabies?
Rabies is a virus of mammals, transmitted through the bite of a rabid animal. It infects the central nervous system and causes disease in the brain and death; it is 99.9% fatal. The most common animals that carry the disease are raccoons, skunks, foxes, coyotes and bats. Although most reported cases are in Asia and Africa, rabies is present in North America as well.
It is important to vaccinate your pets and keep them away from wildlife that can spread the disease. Call animal control if you have any stray animals in your neighborhood, that may be unvaccinated or ill. Contact your veterinarian if your pet has been in contact with a stray animal or has bite wounds.
CDC - Rabies
World Rabies Day