To Our Washtenaw Veterinary Hospital Community,

Rabies is a preventable viral disease of the central nervous system that affects mammals, including humans, as well as our canine and feline patients. It is most commonly transmitted through the bite of an infected animal. Whether your pet goes outside or is indoor-only, they are still considered at risk. Unfortunately, if an animal becomes infected, the chance of survival is exceedingly low.

At Washtenaw Veterinary Hospital, it is our policy to ensure that all patients who are of age and in proper health receive their rabies vaccination. For cats, this vaccine is administered annually. For dogs, the vaccine is given every three years after an initial one-year dose. To ensure the safety of both our staff and your pet, we are unable to handle any animals that are not vaccinated for rabies.

Michigan law requires that all dogs older than four months of age be vaccinated against rabies. Although it is not legally required for cats, we strongly recommend that they remain vaccinated. Additionally, in the United States, a “positive” rabies antibody titer is not recognized as a valid substitute for vaccination and does not fulfill the legal requirement.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding our policy, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at frontdesk@wvhcares.com, and we will be happy to address them.

Thank you for your continued support of our community here at Washtenaw Veterinary Hospital.