Rabies is one of the most feared diseases in the world—for good reason. It’s always fatal once symptoms appear, but here’s the good news: rabies is 100% preventable with timely vaccination and responsible pet ownership.
At Cottage Vet Clinic, we take rabies prevention seriously—not just for the health of your pets, but to protect you, your family, and your community. With World Rabies Day approaching on 28 September, it’s the perfect time to raise awareness about this deadly but preventable disease.
What Is Rabies?
Rabies is a viral disease that affects the nervous system of mammals, including humans, dogs, cats, and wildlife. It spreads through the saliva of infected animals, usually via bites or scratches. Once the virus enters the body, it travels to the brain, causing neurological symptoms and, ultimately, death.
How Rabies Spreads
Rabies is most commonly transmitted through:
-
Bites from infected animals (dogs, cats, mongooses, bats, etc.)
-
Scratches or contact with open wounds
-
Saliva entering the eyes, nose, or mouth
In South Africa, rabies is endemic, especially in certain provinces. It’s a legal requirement to vaccinate your pets—not just a recommendation.
Signs of Rabies in Animals
Rabies affects the brain, so symptoms vary but often include:
-
Sudden aggression or unprovoked fear
-
Excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth
-
Weakness or paralysis (especially in the hind legs)
-
Disorientation or unusual behaviour
-
Seizures or coma
Unfortunately, once clinical signs appear, the disease is fatal.
Rabies in Humans
If you are bitten by any animal, rinse the wound thoroughly for 10 minutes under running water and seek immediate medical attention. If treated promptly after exposure, rabies is preventable through post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). If treatment is delayed until symptoms start, there is no cure. Post-exposure prophylaxis should be started immediately, even whilst waiting for results of whether the animal that caused the bite was carrying rabies.
That’s why vaccinating your pets is the first and most important line of defence—for everyone’s safety.
Rabies Vaccination for Pets
In South Africa:
-
All dogs and cats must be vaccinated against rabies from the age of 3 months
-
A booster is required after 1 year, then every 3 years (or annually, depending on risk and vaccine type)
Vaccination is quick, affordable, and highly effective. At Cottage Vet Clinic, we provide rabies vaccinations during routine check-ups or as part of a health plan.
What to Do If Your Pet Is Bitten
If your pet is bitten by a stray or wild animal:
-
Avoid handling the wound directly
-
Wash the area thoroughly with soap and water
-
Call us immediately for emergency care
-
Report the incident to your local vet or state vet, depending on the situation
We will assess whether a rabies booster or quarantine is needed.
How to Protect Your Pets and Family
-
Keep all pets vaccinated
-
Don’t allow pets to roam freely, especially in high-risk areas
-
Supervise pets during walks and avoid contact with stray or wild animals
-
Educate children never to touch unfamiliar animals
In Summary
Rabies is a deadly disease—but it’s entirely preventable. Keeping your dog or cat vaccinated not only protects them but helps prevent human deaths, too.
With World Rabies Day on 28 September, now is the perfect time to check that your pet’s vaccinations are up to date. Contact Cottage Vet Clinic to schedule a quick, life-saving vaccine—and do your part in the global fight against rabies.
Meta Description:
