Is Rabies Vaccination Necessary for Dogs?

The purpose of rabies vaccination is to prevent infection by the rabies Virus. Germany is virtually rabies free since 2008. This is the result of years of vaccinations to protect as many animals as we can. The permanent vaccination committee of the Federal Association of Practicing Veterinarians recommends that dogs be vaccinated against rabies regularly. Find out all you need to about this vaccination.

Dog owners often wonder if rabies vaccinations are necessary. After all, the chance of infection is so small. The consequences of rabies are always fatal. You should therefore weigh the pros and cons of vaccination carefully with your veterinarian.

Why you should vaccinate your dog against rabies

Although rabies has been declared eradicated in Germany there is still the risk that it could be imported from another country. To ensure that the deadly disease is contained permanently, it is important to provide dogs with a permanent vaccination. If the dog is infected by the rabies virus, and then the disease spreads, the outcome will always be fatal. The dog should be euthanized as soon as the virus has been identified. This is a gentler way to handle the situation. The disease can also be transmitted to people. The short course of this disease is also fatal, as there are no effective treatments available.

In Germany, foxes were the main carriers of the virus, but bats now are the most common. It is unlikely that your dog will be infected by rabid bats, as dogs are rarely exposed to bats. The risk of infection from dogs imported illegally from other countries, where the disease has not been eradicated, is still minimal but much more serious. The national rabies law requires that if your dog has not been vaccinated and is bitten, it must be put down. This is because there is a reasonable suspicion that the animal is infected. To be safe, vaccinating your dog against the rabies is recommended.

First and foremost, the primary immunization is necessary for your dog. Your puppy should be vaccinated after the third month. Bring him back for a second vaccination one month later and a third vaccination 365 days later to build up immunity. A booster vaccination is required after that. It is not necessary to vaccinate your dog against rabies each year. Most vaccines are good for three years.

Ask your vet for advice on how to protect your dog against infection by a rabies vaccine that is valid for a period of three years. Write this information in the certificate. If you plan to take your dog to a place where there is a high risk of rabies, it must have a current vaccination.