08/18/2025
🩺 Medical Monday: Rabies Awareness 🐾
Shelby, Walter, Norman, and Riley recently came in for rabies post-exposure prophylaxis after a bat made its way into their home. Rabies is a deadly virus that can be transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, and timely vaccination is critical for prevention.
Niagara County has reported 17 cases of bats found in homes this month alone, and just recently, a rabid bat was discovered in a home in Sanborn, NY, found in the homeowner’s bedroom on July 26.
Important NYS Rabies Laws for Pets:
• All dogs, cats, and ferrets must be vaccinated against rabies by law.
• Puppies, kittens, and ferrets should receive their first rabies vaccine at 3 months of age.
• Booster vaccinations are required: typically at 1 year after the initial vaccine, then every 1–3 years depending on the vaccine used.
• Pet owners must report any suspected rabies exposure to local health authorities immediately.
Pine Woods Animal Hospital Policy:
• Rabies vaccinations are required for all dogs and cats unless there is a medical reason not to vaccinate, such as a history of a severe vaccine reaction or an immune-mediated disease.
• Rabies titers will not be accepted as a substitute for vaccination.
Prevention Tips:
• Keep pets vaccinated and supervised.
• Avoid contact with wildlife, especially bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes.
• If a bat is found in your home, contact animal control rather than trying to handle it yourself.
Rabies is 100% preventable with proper vaccination, but once symptoms appear, it is almost always fatal. Protect your pets, and stay vigilant!
