As reported by the World Health Organization, rabies claims an estimated 59,000 lives worldwide each year from dog bites or scratches, with nearly half the victims children under 15. Proven preventive measures like vaccination can safeguard your family and your dog.
Rabies remains a major health threat in many regions. Of the world's 900 million dogs, 75-85% are unowned strays or community animals. In outbreak areas, both pets and strays risk infection without vaccination, compounded by limited vaccine access and low awareness.
Rabies is a fatal viral zoonotic disease causing brain and spinal cord inflammation in animals and humans. Spread through infected saliva via bites or scratches, domestic dogs cause up to 99% of human cases.
Incubation time varies by bite location: weeks or months from a toe bite, but days from the face as the virus travels to the brain.
Once symptoms emerge—anxiety, confusion, paralysis, aggression, excessive salivation, hydrophobia, swallowing difficulty—rabies is 100% fatal, leading to coma and death.
Avoid unknown dogs, particularly those eating, sleeping, or with puppies, as they may react defensively. If encountered, don't run or yell. Instead, avoid eye contact, stay still, and watch for signs of aggression: growling, snapping, bared teeth, raised hackles, pinned ears, or stiff posture.
Rabies is 100% preventable with vaccination. Work with your veterinarian to ensure your dog stays current on rabies shots, available in one-year or three-year doses.
If bitten or scratched by a suspect rabid dog, immediately wash the wound with soap and running water for 15 minutes to remove and inactivate the virus. Rush to a doctor or ER for post-exposure treatment, which may include vaccination based on your history.
