Dog Vaccinations: What’s The Difference Between The 3-Year Rabies Shot And The 1-Year Rabies Shot?

All states in the U.S. have laws in place requiring dogs to be immunized to prevent the spread of Rabies.

As of March 2009 Alabama is the one last remaining state requiring an annual Rabies shot.  However, there is a proposed rewrite of their law in process now to remove the 1-year requirement there as well. All other states require the 3-year Rabies vaccination instead.

The convenience of taking your dog to the vet for a Rabies shot only once every 3 years offers a nice savings, as veterinarian office visits are rapidly approaching the cost of taking your own kids in for a doctor’s visit.

The big question is which Rabies injection is better for your dog? Is there a different formula used in the 3-year Rabies vaccination? Is the quantity of drug being injected larger and, therefore, potentially more dangerous for your dog?

These are all legitimate concerns that we will explore…

Any Differences?

Here’s a shocker for you: the actual 3-year Rabies shot contains the same drug and is given in the same amount as the 1-year Rabies shot. 

The only difference is the label on the bottle indicating 1-year vs. 3-year.

Rabies Vaccination Schedules

For the purpose of convincing pet owners to return for a booster shot with young dogs, the first Rabies vaccinationshould take place at 4 to 6 months, followed by an annual Rabies booster.  This will build up antibodies to protect the dog quickly. After that first annual shot, you can then move on to a 3-year Rabies vaccination schedule.

Even though the Rabies shots are essentially the same, simply being labeled a 1-year shot will place the animal in a noncompliant status as far as the state is concerned (when that year has passed). To again be considered protected (according to the state), your dog will need another Rabies vaccination, and then repeated Rabies vaccinations every 3 years thereafter.

Is The Rabies Vaccination Safe?

The Rabies vaccine does come with some risks. There is a potential for serious life-threatening allergic reactions that you should be aware of.

If your dog is breathing heavily, his face is swelling, his eyes are watering, or he’s vomiting, your vet should be notified immediately.  These reactions to the Rabies vaccine are indicative of a medical emergency for your dog. Fast action is imperative, as immediate treatment is critical for your dog’s survival.

Other common reactions include agitation or aggressive behavior, skin rashes, digestive disorders and muscle weakness.

Your Dog’s Chances Of Getting Rabies

Did you know the Rabies vaccine is the only immunization that is required by law for pets in the United States?

Because of the extensive Rabies vaccination program, as of 2007 Canine Rabies no longer exists in the U.S.  Of course, dogs can still contract Rabies from other animals living in the wild though.

Because there is a known chance of some dogs having a severe reaction to the Rabies vaccine, you should be aware that you do have the option of obtaining an exemption from the procedure. You see, veterinarians are authorized to exempt animals from the inoculation in cases where an animal’s current medical condition would indicate a risk to their well-being.

http://dogs.thefuntimesguide.com/2009/07/dog_rabies_vaccine.php