The goal of World Rabies Day is to raise awareness for a disease that is 100% preventable.  Most human deaths from rabies occur in Asia and Africa because rabies has not been controlled within the canine populations.  In the United States most human deaths occur from bat bites.

Rabies is a virus transmitted in the saliva that attacks the brain.  The skin is a protector against the virus but if the skin is broken from a scratch or a bite wound the virus will enter the skin and travel to the brain.    Rabies can be transmitted by any mammal (bats, skunks, raccoons, foxes, cats, dogs, horses, and cows).  Behavioral changes are the most common symptoms of rabies.  The infected can either become extremely aggressive or overly friendly which allows them to transmit the virus.  Once symptoms of rabies have actually begun death usually follows.

The best way to keep yourselves and your pets safe are to keep your pets current on their rabies vaccinations.  Pets should be vaccinated every 1-3 years.  Keeping your pets vaccinated is the first line of defense against rabies.  Staying away from wild animals will also help prevent rabies.