There’s been increasing controversy in the U.S. in recent years over the safety of vaccinations for humans. Even vaccinations that have long been mandatory for school-age children are now getting pushback from some parents.
Federal and some state officials have begun relaxing vaccination mandates. Florida currently appears to be moving toward ending them.
The spread of the “anti-vaxx” movement
This “anti-vaxx” movement has also affected how some people feel about vaccinating their pets. While many dog and cat owners follow their veterinarians’ recommendations about vaccinating their animals to prevent all sorts of potentially dangerous and even fatal diseases, not all do – for a variety of reasons, including the belief by some that the vaccinations themselves could cause harm. Some pet owners don’t even take their pets in for rabies vaccinations. According to one study published late last year, about 4% of dogs and 12% of cats have not received a rabies vaccination.
Under Kentucky law, dogs, cats and ferrets must receive rabies vaccinations. They’re required for a dog to be issued a current tag.
What does this mean for someone who has been bitten by a dog?
Typically, one of the first things the victim of a dog bite will do is ask for proof that the dog has had their rabies vaccination. That can save them from having to undergo a painful series of shots to prevent them from getting the deadly disease if the dog had it.
While it’s very rare for a domesticated dog in this country to have rabies, it’s not impossible. The chances are only going to increase if more owners choose not to vaccinate their dogs – particularly in areas with a number of stray animals.
Learning that a dog was not vaccinated for rabies can add a layer of pain and anxiety to that already experienced by victims of dog bites. Seeking immediate medical attention should be the first priority of anyone in this situation. Getting experienced legal guidance to help ensure fair compensation for expenses and other damages is also crucial.