The rabies vaccine is a state-mandated shot for dogs and cats. This is a good thing, because getting them vaccinated is vital to their health. It’s also good for yours, since rabies can be transmitted to people. This is especially important because rabies is fatal in both people and animals, and there is no cure. The vaccine is your best defense against the disease since it can prevent your pet from ever contracting rabies.

What about the cost? Fortunately, the rabies shot cost at Essentials PetCare is within most people’s budget. Ensuring our vaccines stay affordable is part of our commitment to both the health of your pet and public safety. 

Let’s take a closer look at the specifics of the rabies vaccine.

Why the Rabies Vaccine Is Vital for Your Pet’s Health

Rabies is transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, usually within a bite wound. While symptoms don’t show up for weeks, or even months, animals with rabies are highly contagious. Unfortunately, the only option for an unvaccinated pet who is positive for rabies is euthanasia.

That’s why the rabies vaccine is state mandated. As mentioned above, the shot is your pet’s best defense against the disease. 

Symptoms of Rabies 

How do you know if your pet has rabies? If they’ve been bitten by a wild animal, you should notify your veterinarian immediately. If they have received a rabies vaccine, a booster shot can be administered to help their chances of survival. 

Typically a quarantine time is also required to closely monitor your pet for development of any signs of rabies. The length of time for this quarantine period is dependent upon what type of animal bit your pet, wild vs. domesticated, as well as their current vaccine status. Your veterinarian can provide further guidance.

The main symptom of rabies is gradual paralysis over time. Other symptoms include:

  • Skittish and nervous demeanor
  • Extreme friendliness
  • Loss of appetite
  • Increased, unexplainable aggression
  • Withdrawn behavior

How Does the Rabies Vaccine Work?

Like all vaccines, the rabies shot helps your pet’s immune system develop antibodies. These fight off the virus that causes rabies. The shot is safe and can be given to puppies and kittens as young as 12 weeks old. 

It’s important for animals to receive the rabies vaccine before they’re exposed to the virus and to follow a vaccination schedule to keep their protection up to date. The rabies vaccine has a booster shot after the first year, and subsequent shots every 1-3 years, depending on which vaccine product is used and local ordinances. 

What’s the Average Rabies Shot for Dogs Price Range?

So, what is the average rabies shot for dogs price point? No one should be dissuaded from getting their pet vaccinated for rabies because of cost. While some public clinics offer the shot for a small amount or even free, established veterinary hospitals can charge up to $50 or more, plus a visit fee. There may also be a cost difference between a one-year shot and a three-year shot.

What’s the best way to obtain the rabies shot for dogs so price is not a barrier? Consider a low cost veterinary clinic that can offer the vaccine as a single service, or bundled with other vaccines to cut costs.

Rabies Vaccine at Essentials PetCare 

At Essentials PetCare, we are committed to helping you prioritize your pet’s health with quality care at affordable prices. Focusing our services on preventive and minor illness care, allows us to keep our pricing accessible for all pet parents.

We offer the rabies vaccine with a veterinary exam for both dogs and cats at just $40. More comprehensive care is available through our tiered packages, which are tailored to best fit your pet’s needs and your budget. All value vaccine packages include the rabies vaccination and range from $60-$180.

Don’t let cost stop you from helping your pet live their best life. Come in and see us today for a vaccination visit and rest easy knowing both you and your pet are protected. 

Essential Tip: Preventative pet care costs less with our bundled service packages. Head on over to our services page to see what we offer.

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Prices subject to change. See current prices: https://essentialspetcare.com/services