You Need to Get Your Pet a Rabies Shot NOW in Dutchess County

I know several people who just got new pets. For instance, my girlfriend and her family just adopted a kitten. He's so rambunctious, it's like having a toddler around! Right after she got her kitten, I feel I heard of 5 other friends all adopting pets. I guess this is the time to do it.

I have yet to have a pet of my own, though I've done significant work and care for former partners' pets. I hope to have a pet one day, but we will see when the circumstances work out best. One thing I know about having a pet is that you need to make sure they are up on their shots.

Dutchess County Government Recognized World Rabies Day

While some people may be posting shots of their sons for National Sons Day today, you may want to be getting shots for your fur babies, as well. September 28th is regarded as World Rabies Day. The global health observance started in 2007 to raise awareness about the world's deadliest infectious disease and bring together partners to enhance prevention and control efforts worldwide.

According to the CDC, while rabies is a 100% preventable disease, nearly 60,000 people die from the disease around the world each year. World Rabies Day is an opportunity to reflect on our efforts to control this deadly disease and remind ourselves that the fight against rabies is not yet over.

Dutchess County Government issues a statement today in observance of the day. Their health department issued a few reminders of how to protect yourselves and your furry friends from rabies:

• Vaccinate pets

• Avoid contact with wildlife and keep pets away

• Keep your home and yard free of food and debris that may attract wild animals

• Secure your home to keep out bats.

If there is ever any physical contact between a wild animal and a person or a pet, report the incident to DBCH at (845) 486-3404 Mon-Fri 9am-5pm or (845) 431-6465 on evenings & weekends. To learn more about rabies and prevention methods visit: dutchessny.gov/rabies.

Animals in Which Rabies is Most Commonly Found

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in North America rabies is most commonly found in bats, skunks, raccoons, foxes, and mongoose. It is also found in cats, cattle, and dogs. The CDC says that rabid bats have been found in every state except for Hawaii. Rabid mongoose have been found in Puerto Rico.

Rabies is easily transmitted from animals to other animals, including human beings. Human cases are rare in the United States, but deadly if not caught in time.