In one of the worst rabies outbreaks in Carlsbad, New
Mexico’s history, over a three month period from the end of 2011 to the
beginning of 2012, 32 dogs, one cat and 10 sheep had to be euthanized because
they were exposed to a rabid fox. Tests also showed that 22 skunks in the area
were infected with rabies.
All of this seems to be due to people not getting their pets
and livestock their rabies vaccinations. Twelve other people in the Carlsbad
area had to go through post-exposure prophylaxis even though no one was
directly exposed to rabid wildlife.
In one example, an unvaccinated dog came down with rabies
and the entire family – all eight people – needed to get expensive,
post-exposure prophylaxis according to Dr. Paul Ettestad, New Mexico’s state
public health veterinarian (http://goo.gl/1neiO).
Rabies vaccinations are very inexpensive, and although some
people have been going through the economic downturn, if you own a pet, you should
be able to afford to have your pet vaccinated. If not, the chances of pets
getting rabies is very high and could cost you more in the long run.
If you need to have your pet vaccinated for rabies or any
other diseases, give us a call at one of the Bregman Vet Hospitals and we can
help you get that taken care of.
