How Often Do Dogs Need Rabies Shots?

How Often Do Dogs Need Rabies Shots? – Rabies is one of the dangerous viral infections a dog can contract—and it is particularly dangerous because this sickness might be passed on to humans. Because of this, rabies is one of the rabies vaccine is one of the few vaccines that’s mandated for any dog in the state of Florida.

To stay in keeping with local law—and, more importantly, to limit exposure of the rabies virus among not only your dog, however other dogs and humans who cross its path—dog owners ought to be diligent in keeping up with the rabies vaccine and other required vaccines. If you are new to owning a dog or simply need a refresher on the schedule for vaccinating your dog against rabies, we have got the answers you are looking for—along with some guidance on where to go for the vaccine.

When Do Puppies Get the Rabies Shot?

Whereas your veterinarian ought to always be the one to set your dog’s vaccination schedule, puppies typically receive their first rabies vaccination at or shortly after 16 weeks old. Before your dog is vaccinated against rabies, you might be restricted from bringing them to dog boarders or other businesses or properties where a rabies vaccination is required. Additionally, you will want to avoid contact with dogs and other animals that may carry the rabies virus.

Your puppy will receive rabies boosters periodically throughout its life, beginning between 12 and 16 months of age. After that, rabies booster will be administered every person to 3 years, depending on the kind of vaccination your dog receives.

Common Rabies Shot Side Effects in Dogs

Like many vaccines your dog might receive, side effects are possible as the dog’s immune response is activated. These effects can comprise:

• • Mild fever

• • Loss of appetite

• • Reduced energy

• • Soreness and swelling at the injection website

• • Temporary loss of hair around the injection website

In most instances, these side effects ought to subside within a day or two of vaccination, and a few dogs might not exhibit any side effects. If you notice extreme symptoms in your dog, contact your veterinarian.

What if My Dog is Overdue for a Rabies Shot?

When you set up care with a local vet, that office will likely keep you informed of upcoming vaccine and booster requirements for your dog. This might comprise mailings and/or emails to let you know which vaccines are due, and on what date. Whereas this is an easy way to keep track of your dog’s vaccine schedule, it is possible that you’ll lose track, and your dog will become overdue for a rabies shot.

Outstanding rabies vaccines and/or boosters might cause you to lose access to businesses and travel opportunities that require your dog be updated on vaccines. Fortunately, even when your dog is overdue, you possibly can easily remedy the situation by scheduling a rabies vaccine appointment with your vet or a facility that administers vaccines for pets. Once your dog receives its necessary shot, they’ll be up-to-date and can return to their regular activities.

How Often Do Dogs Need Rabies Shots in Florida?

As one of the core vaccines required by law, the state of Florida has rules governing when your dog needs to be vaccinated against the rabies virus. Like cats and other pets, dogs are required to be vaccinated against rabies by the time they are four months of age.

Whereas nobody is going to come knocking on your door if you aren’t getting the vaccine instantly, you might be held liable if your dog contracts rabies and damages one other pet, person, or property. Delaying the vaccine can also put your dog’s life at risk, so prompt vaccination is strongly recommended.

Where Do Dogs Get the Rabies Shot?

If you have established care with a local vet—or need to set up care for your puppy—your vet ought to be able to give your puppy the vaccines it needs to stay up-to-date and shielded from not only rabies, however other potential infections.

If you do not know of a local vet or one other business that provides rabies vaccinations, you too can kind “places to get rabies shots for dogs near me” into an on-line search engine. This might pull up low-cost or even free rabies vaccine options for your dog, making it easy to get the vaccinations your dog needs on the timeline they need them.

If price is a matter, you too can consult your local vet to see if any subsidized or affordable vaccine options are available in your area.

Once your dog has its rabies vaccine, you will be one step nearer to going out in the world with your dog without fear of a potentially life-threatening virus. Stay on top of your dog’s vaccine schedule and get connected with a local vet to ensure you do not accidentally fall behind.