Rabies
Protecting your pet against rabies: Everything you need to know
[ + ] Summary
Rabies is a fatal viral disease attacking the central nervous system. It is mainly transmitted through saliva (bite). Vaccination, monitoring, and strict application of an isolation protocol in case of doubt are your best weapons to protect your family and pets.
What exactly is rabies?
Rabies is a viral disease (caused by a virus) that attacks the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). Once symptoms appear, it is almost always fatal.
[!] Surprising fact: Cats are more at risk of being infected than dogs, as they roam more and are less often vaccinated.
How is the virus transmitted?
Transmission occurs mainly through the saliva of an infected animal. Wild animals can carry it (mostly bats, raccoons, etc.). The virus can enter the body in two ways:
- ➤ Through a bite (or an existing wound).
- ➤ If saliva comes into direct contact with mucous membranes (eyes, nose, or mouth).
[ – ] Symptoms: How to recognize an infected animal?
Pay attention to these physical and psychological changes:
- ➤ Behavior: Sudden aggression, or conversely, extreme shyness. Loss of natural fear in wild animals.
- ➤ Reversed rhythm: Nocturnal animals seen in broad daylight, appearing friendly.
- ➤ Physical problems: Refusal to eat, unsteady gait, paralysis (often starting with the hind legs).
- ➤ Salivation: The animal drools excessively and its tongue hangs abnormally.
✔ How to protect your pet daily?
Vaccination is the most powerful tool. All dogs and cats must be vaccinated regularly (yearly or every 3 years). In addition:
- ➤ Sterilization: A spayed/neutered animal roams and fights less, reducing risks.
- ➤ Monitoring: Do not let your pets roam freely and do not leave food outside (it attracts wildlife).
- ➤ Education: Teach your children never to touch an unknown or wild animal.
[!] Emergency actions & Isolation protocol
Isolation protocol: If your pet shows symptoms or has just been attacked by a suspect animal, separate it strictly from humans and other animals. Lock it away gently, do not handle it, and call the MAPAQ at 1 844 264-6289 (1 844 ANIMAUX) or your vet immediately. To report a wild animal that is dead or suspect, call 1 877 346-6763.
In case of a bite on a human: Wash the wound with soap and water. Contact Info Santé (811) or go to the emergency room immediately for preventive treatment.
Veterinary and legal follow-up: Rabies is a reportable disease (required by law to be reported). An animal that has bitten must be quarantined (strict isolation) for 10 days, even if vaccinated. If the biter is a captured wild animal, it will have to be euthanized (put to sleep gently) to analyze its brain tissues in a laboratory.
Need to update your pet’s vaccines?
