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  • Rabies Vaccine for Dogs

Rabies is a rare but very serious infection of the brain and nervous system that can affect our pets in Essex. It's usually transmitted via saliva from a bite or scratch of an infected animal. Rabies is usually found in Asia, Africa, and Central and South America. The UK is free from rabies, but it has been noted that a small number of wild bats can carry it. Rabies is not part of the standard vaccination courses; however, a rabies vaccination may need to be given if your pet is travelling overseas. More information on travel and vaccinations for overseas travel can be found on the GOV website:  https://bit.ly/3gZz9ll

Rabies FAQs

What is rabies?

Rabies is rare in but very serious infection of the brain and nervous system. It's usually transmitted via saliva from a bite or scratch of an infected animal.

What are the symptoms of rabies in dogs?

The UK is currently rabies free and it’s extremely unlikely for rabies to be infecting a pet unless they have travelled abroad or met an infected animal.

Symptoms of rabies can take several weeks to show but these include:

  • sudden behavioural changes – fearful, aggressive or attention seeking
  • muscle weakness
  • drooping face
  • excessive salivation or drooling
  • difficulty walking
  • noise sensitivity
  • light sensitivity
  • seizures.

How is rabies spread in dogs?

Rabies is usually transmitted via saliva from a bite or scratch of an infected animal.

How do you cure rabies in dogs?

Sadly, there is no treatment or cure for rabies. Vaccinations are the only prevention from this deadly infection.

How long does rabies vaccine last in dogs?

Rabies vaccines are usually required to be given annually at one of our practices in Essex but only for animals travelling to countries where it is present.

What are the symptoms of rabies in cats?

Just like dogs, cat symptoms would include the following, but cats contracting rabies is extremely rare:

  • sudden behavioural changes – fearful, aggressive or attention seeking
  • muscle weakness
  • drooping face
  • excessive salivation or drooling
  • difficulty walking
  • noise sensitivity
  • light sensitivity
  • seizures.

How common is rabies in cats?

Cats with rabies in the UK this is extremely unlikely unless a cat travels overseas or has contact with an infected animal.

Cherrydown Vets Surgeries

Basildon

The Paddock
53 Cherrydown West
Basildon
Essex
SS16 5AW

Tel: 01268 533636
Fax: 01268 533253

Stanford Le Hope

12 King Street
Stanford Le Hope
Essex
SS17 0HL


Tel:  01375 642419 or 01268 533636 

Wickford

31 London Road
Wickford
Essex
SS12 0AW


Tel: 01268 765244 or 01268 533636