The rabies vaccine is the only way to prevent your dog from contracting one of the most dangerous diseases that can affect him. Canine rabies is caused by a virus that causes extreme damage to the animal's nervous system, leading to death. Moreover, it does not only happen in the dog, but in other animals and in man as well. Although extremely necessary, there are still many doubts about the vaccine.rabies vaccine. Paws of the House shows you 7 myths and truths about rabies vaccination so you understand exactly how this immunizer works.

1) "The rabies vaccine cures the animal with the disease"

Myth. Rabies is considered one of the most serious diseases that can affect dogs, precisely because it has no cure. The rabies vaccine is not a cure for the disease, but a prevention. This means that it will not save a pet that is sick as if it were a medicine. What the canine rabies vaccine does is prevent the dog from catching the disease. That is why it is so important that the rabies vaccinationis done correctly.

2) "The rabies vaccine does not last forever"

True. Many guardians have the question: how long does the rabies vaccine last in the dog? The rabies vaccine has its effect for one year. This means that a booster is needed whenever this period ends. If after one year of application of the rabies vaccine the animal does not take the booster, it will be unprotected and may contract the disease. Therefore, it is essential to take the annual booster in the periodRemember that it is essential to take the rabies vaccine on time, as delaying the dose is very detrimental to the protection of the animal.

3) "As soon as you get the rabies vaccine, your dog is immunized"

Myth. Contrary to what some people think, the effect of the canine rabies vaccine does not happen as soon as the dog takes it. Just like other immunizers, you need to wait a while for the rabies vaccine to stimulate the animal's body to produce antibodies against the disease. This process takes place over an interval of two weeks. During this period, your dog will not yet be able to produce antibodies against the disease.Therefore, do not take your pet out for a walk as soon as you have had the rabies vaccine. Wait this time and then your pet will be fully protected.

4) "Rabies vaccination is mandatory"

True. Rabies vaccination is an obligation! In addition to being one of the mandatory dog vaccines, it is the only one that is present in law. Rabies is a public health problem because, in addition to affecting dogs and other animals, it is a zoonosis - that is, it affects humans as well. Rabies control is essential to keep the population healthy. Therefore, vaccination campaigns are carried outEvery dog owner is required to take their dog for a rabies vaccination every year.

5) "Only the puppy can get canine rabies vaccine"

Myth. Ideally, it should be given to the puppy as a way to prevent rabies from an early age. The first dose of rabies vaccine should be given at four months of age, as the antibodies present in breast milk are no longer sufficient. However, if you have rescued or adopted a dog that has not yet had the rabies vaccine, there is no problem. He can still - and should!- The immunization can be applied at any age. Take him immediately to a veterinarian who will check his health and apply the vaccine to your pet. After this first dose, the annual booster should also be taken.

6) "Rabies vaccine can cause side effects"

True. In the first few days after the rabies vaccine is administered, the dog may experience some side effects. However, this is a common consequence of most vaccines, whether in animals or humans. When we inject a vaccine, a foreign agent enters the body, so it is normal for the body to initially fight it. However, the effects are not serious. Among the main ones that may appearafter rabies vaccination are fever, drowsiness, swelling at the site where the rabies vaccine was applied, body pain and hair loss. Puppies and small dogs are usually the most likely to have them. More serious effects such as difficulty breathing, tremors, excessive salivation and allergic reactions are rare, but if they happen, take the animal to the vet.

7) "The rabies vaccine is expensive"

Myth. Anyone who thinks that getting the rabies vaccine will require a lot of money is completely wrong! In private clinics, the price is usually between R$50 and R$100. However, as a public health issue, free rabies vaccination campaigns are held annually. Find out exactly when it will happen in your city or in the place closest to youand take your puppy for vaccination. You don't have to spend anything and your best friend will be completely protected!