Rabies information for veterinary clinics

Procedures for veterinary personnel dealing with potential rabies exposure in humans and domestic animals.

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The information on this page is for use by veterinary personnel. For information on what to do if you or your domestic animal has potentially been exposed to rabies, see If you suspect rabies.

Overview

Transmission of rabies virus occurs when virus-laden saliva of a rabid animal is introduced by a bite, scratch, or other break in the skin (or rarely, through intact mucous membranes). An infected animal may shed rabies virus in saliva for a short period prior to developing clinical signs of disease (accepted maximum of 10 days for dogs, cats and ferrets).

Situation specific protocols

Handling and submission of samples

  • Alberta Rabies Program staff will do one of the following:
    • arrange for carcass pick-up (depending on location and staff availability), or
    • provide the rabies submission form and detailed instructions on how to collect, package and ship the sample to the rabies laboratory at the Canadian Food and Inspection Agency (CFIA) National Center for Animal Diseases outside Lethbridge, Alberta. Information will also be provided to invoice Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation for clinic services directly related to collection and submission
  • Inform Rabies Program staff if additional diagnostics are planned prior to submission. Samples cannot be returned once they enter the CFIA rabies laboratory.
  • Please do not submit rabies samples to the CFIA laboratory without prior coordination with Rabies Program staff.
  • Rabies suspect animals and samples should be handled by vaccinated individuals wearing appropriate protective equipment. For example, wear gloves and facial protection during necropsy procedures.
  • Carcasses/samples should be maintained between 2 and 6°C. Refrigeration is ideal, but the use of ice packs with or without a cooler can also be considered. Freezing will not damage the sample, but may delay testing if still frozen upon arrival at the lab. Please avoid freezing if possible, unless directed to do so by Rabies Program staff.
  • Maintain sample integrity and biosafety by using leak-proof, sealed containers and double bagging the carcass or samples.

More information on rabies sample collection and personal protective equipment is available from the University of Guelph Animal Health Laboratory.

Vaccination of veterinary personnel

Veterinary clinic employees are eligible for provincially funded rabies vaccination. For information about how to access vaccination, see Rabies Prevention.

Following vaccination, your anti-rabies antibody titer should be assessed every 2 years. Speak to your community public health office or physician to obtain a laboratory requisition for the necessary testing.