Can a vaccinated dog get rabies?

Vaccinations are a crucial part of routine care for pets, protecting them against serious diseases. Our vets in Rancho Cucamonga are here to answer questions like 'Can a vaccinated dog get rabies?' and 'Does the rabies vaccine prevent rabies in dogs?'.

The Impact of Rabies on Dogs

Rabies is a life-threatening virus that affects mammals. It can be present in animals whether or not they are alive. The most common transmission method is through the bite of an infected animal. This is because the rabies virus lives in and is transmitted through the saliva.

The virus will then travel through the animal's nervous system until it reaches the brain. Unfortunately, once the infection reaches the brain, the animal will then die.

The most common signs of rabies in dogs include:

When do the initial symptoms of rabies appear?

While the rabies virus commonly presents its symptoms within two weeks, there have been cases of the symptoms not appearing for months. This makes vaccinations all the more important, as well as ensuring that you notify your local health unit and your vet and follow any instructions that you are provided regarding your animal.

An infected animal can transmit the virus to other animals around 10 days before symptoms appear. The animal typically dies approximately a week to 10 days after the symptoms appear.

Do rabies vaccinations prevent rabies in dogs?

While the rabies vaccine is incredibly effective and provides protection your pet would otherwise not have, no vaccine is 100% effective. It is safer for your pet to have the vaccine than living without it, as the rabies virus is fairly common. 

In Rancho Cucamonga, any dog exposed to the rabies virus and having received their rabies vaccinations will receive a booster shot immediately. They will also require a 30-day quarantine effective immediately, and they will be unable to interact with other animals for a further 60 days after the initial 30-day period.

You must follow the regulations in your area, as these regulations vary between locations. If your vaccinated dog has been in contact with the rabies virus, you should reach out to the health unit in Rancho Cucamonga.

Can a dog get rabies after vaccination?

The chances of a vaccinated dog getting rabies are pretty low. If your dog is up to date with their rabies vaccine then it is unlikely that they will be able to transmit the rabies virus. Even so, it is not impossible. Regardless of vaccination status, any dog that has bitten a person must be quarantined for 10 days. If the dog or cat was infectious at the time of the bite, any symptoms of the virus within the animal will appear within 10 days.

Can you get rabies from a dog that has been vaccinated?

While it is unlikely to get rabies from a vaccinated dog, there is still a slight risk. Both vaccinated and unvaccinated pets that bite a person must be quarantined for 10 days.

Preventing Rabies in Dogs

The best and easiest form of rabies prevention is to keep their vaccinations current. This goes for all types of pets.

Your vet can recommend a specific schedule for your puppy or kitten to receive vaccinations or booster shots. Depending on whether you have a dog or cat, pet vaccinations will be administered at different intervals. At Rancho Regional Veterinary Hospital, cats and dogs receive rabies vaccinations at around 14 to 16 weeks.

Keeping your dog on a leash during walks and indoors during the nighttime, when wild animals are more active, will protect them from rabies. In Rancho Cucamonga, there is a good chance that bats may be rabid. Be sure to bat-proof your home and avoid contact with bats.

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.