World Rabies Day is September 28! Rabies is a deadly virus that kills pets, wildlife, and people across the globe. Help us end rabies by keeping your pets up-to-date with their rabies vaccinations which protects not only your pet but also you and your family from the virus.
World Rabies Day is co-sponsored by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Global Alliance for Rabies Control (GARC). Check out the state of SC! We are on the map!
- Avoiding wild animals, particularly ones that appear to be injured or behaving abnormally, and teaching your children to do the same is also a great way to protect your family from rabies.
- Encourage children to tell an adult if they have been bitten or scratched by any animal (stray cats and dogs, wildlife, neighbors’ pets, etc.) or handled or woke up to a bat in a room (don’t let it go but safely capture it), and praise them for telling you.
- Be sure to report exposures to your local DHEC Public Health Rabies Program office. They will be happy to assist you with your rabies-related questions and concerns.
If you see a wild animal that appears sick, contact a wildlife control operator or wildlife rescue/rehabilitation group for help. If you see a stray dog or cat, contact your local animal control office.