Rabies Information

Why Rabies Vaccines Are Important

Rabies is a deadly virus that affects the nervous system of mammals, including humans. It’s most commonly spread through the bite of an infected animal. Once symptoms appear, rabies is nearly always fatal — but it’s completely preventable through vaccination.

North Carolina law requires that all dogs, cats, and ferrets four months of age and older be vaccinated against rabies. Keeping your pets up-to-date on their rabies shots not only protects them — it protects your family, neighbors, and our community.

New! Low-Cost Rabies Vaccines for Rowan County Residents

Rowan County Animal Services is excited to now offer low-cost rabies vaccinations to the public as an ongoing service. For more information about this service visit the Animal Shelter Rabies Vaccination Program Page.

To schedule a rabies vaccine for your pet outside of the shelter’s low-cost program, please find local veterinary clinics online.

Rabies Vaccination Requirements

All dogs, cats, and ferrets over four months of age are required by North Carolina law to have a current rabies vaccination.

Please note:
If your pet comes into contact with a rabid animal within the first 28 days after their initial rabies vaccination, they will still be considered unvaccinated, since it takes about 28 days for their body to build protective antibodies.

About Rabies

Rabies is a virus that affects the nervous system and is found in the saliva and brain tissue of infected animals. It is primarily transmitted through bites from these animals, but it can also spread through scratches or contact with infected saliva or brain tissue on open wounds, broken skin, or mucous membranes (like the eyes, nose, and mouth).

Once rabies reaches the brain, it is always fatal. The virus infects only warm-blooded animals and has two forms:

Dumb Rabies

• Animals may become shy or hide, or be unusually approachable.
• This may be followed by sluggishness, confusion, and depression.

Furious Rabies

• Animals may be excitable, irritable, or aggressive.
• They might seem confused and calm one moment, then suddenly attack.
• They may lose natural caution toward enemies.
• Both forms end with paralysis, coma, and death.

Animal Bites & Quarantine

• If a dog or cat bites you and is not showing abnormal signs, it will be quarantined for 10 days to watch for rabies.
• If any signs develop during quarantine, the animal will be humanely euthanized and tested.
• If a wild animal bites you, it must be euthanized and tested right away.

If you are bitten, wash the wound thoroughly with warm, soapy water. Then notify Animal Enforcement and see your physician or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.

Signs of Rabies

• Animals active during the day that are normally nocturnal
• Staggering, weakness, or paralysis
• Change in the sound of the animal’s voice
• Inability to eat or drink
• Excessive drooling, frothing at the mouth
• Convulsions
• If you see an animal showing any of these signs, stay away and call Animal Enforcement immediately.