To protect your pet's health, rabbies vaccinations are essential.
Transmitted from the bite of an infected animal, the rabies virus causes encephalopathy, a condition that alters the brain structure in mammals---including humans---before quickly becoming fatal. Like other states, Arkansas recognizes that this disease is entirely preventable if all pet owners follow vaccination guidelines. The state has established legislation to ensure dogs and cats (as well as their owners) are protected should they be bitten by a wild animal.
Why Rabies Shots Are Necessary
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), just 10 percent of rabies cases occur in domestic animals. However, you can prevent your pets from contracting this lethal disease by ensuring they see a veterinarian for regular rabies booster shots. By following state-mandated vaccination schedules, you're not only protecting your pets, you're protecting your family and community from the dangers of a rabid animal bite as well.
New Arkansas Rabies Act
On January 1, 2010, The Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) revised its rabies vaccination laws. According to the Act, "All dogs and cats, four months of age or older will be required to have a rabies vaccination given by a licensed veterinarian. Currently, no age limit is specified for initial vaccinations. Regardless of the age of the animal at initial vaccination, a booster vaccination should be administered one year later (as recommended by every licensed vaccine currently available). Following the booster, dogs and cats should be placed on a vaccination schedule according to the labeled duration of the vaccine used."
Vaccination Schedules
The ADH's 2010 rabies legislation actually grants pet owners more time between mandated vaccinations, so after your pet receives its first rabies booster shot, you and your veterinarian should determine the best vaccine regimen for your dog or cat. For dogs, rabies vaccines are available for a duration of either one year or three years, and for cats, a four-year vaccine is also available.
Complying with the Rabies Control Act
All Arkansas pet owners must comply with the regulations set forth by the Rabies Control Act or face legal, and perhaps civil, repercussions. Failure to vaccinate your pet may result in a fine, or in more serious cases, the destruction of the animal. Should your dog or cat bite a human, you must inform the state's Department of Health immediately, after which the animal will be quarantined and placed under observation for no less than 10 days to ensure they are not infected with rabies.
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