Our animal friends are more than just pets, they are also great companions who make life more interesting and manageable. This is why you’d do anything to make sure your pet is always healthy and safe. One of those steps in making sure your animal friend enjoys the best life possible is to get them vaccinated. Durham residents who have had to get raccoon removal and other wildlife control services should understand the implications for pets and pet owners in the region- implications that the authorities are urging residents to prevent by vaccinating their pets.

Rabies Threat Looms Over Durham

The prevalence of diseases like rabies makes pet vaccination very important. You may believe that the disease is unlikely to affect your pet (especially if you haven’t seen or felt its impact firsthand as yet) but don’t be fooled. The potentially deadly disease is often found in raccoons, foxes bats and skunks, all popular inhabitants of Durham’s green and sometimes urban spaces as well.

In fact, Ross MacEachern, Health Protection Manager in Durham’s health department recently revealed that a bat in the Durham region has tested possibly for rabies. He and his team have been exerting all efforts to ensure that Durham’s residents understand and accept the importance of pet vaccination. Included in their efforts is the provision of inexpensive rabies animal vaccination and chip clinic services at various locations in Durham during May and June. They also provide similar clinics throughout the year so it is a good idea to keep a lookout for these events.

The Consequences of Rabies Infections

The disease affects the animal’s nervous system and as time passes, the poor animal loses control of its own body with paralysis that precedes a painful death.

Additionally, unlike some other wildlife transmitted diseases, rabies also affects human beings. In human beings, a rabies infection can become deadly, especially if it remains undetected or untreated for a prolonged period of time. Unfortunately, the emphasis is often placed on protecting people and not the animals who share the same space. Remember also that rabies will use your pet as a vehicle to get to you and other people, which means that vaccinating your pet provides you with an added layer of protection against rabies.

Show Your Pet Some Extra ‘Healthy’ Love

One of the best things you can do for your pet is to follow Durham Health Region’s advice and get them vaccinated. Even if your pet stays indoors, outdoor experiences are inevitable (a walk or play session outside every once in a while is unavoidable). You can also help to keep rabies away by ensuring that wildlife animals stay off your property. But wildlife animals can be tricky and sneaky. After all, survival is built into their DNA. They will keep attempting to enter your space which means diseases like rabies will always be threats to you and your pet. Of course, this means that raccoon removal and exclusion activities will have to be continuously maintained and upgraded as needed.