Rabies virus vaccine is indicated for most mammals, especially dogs, cats, horses, and ferrets, to prevent the fatal zoonotic disease.

INDICATIONS

• Target Species: Indicated for healthy dogs, cats, cattle, sheep, goats, horses, and ferrets.
• Puppies and Kittens: Generally indicated starting at 12 to 16 weeks of age.
• Booster Intervals: A booster is required one year after the initial dose, regardless of the animal’s age or the specific vaccine type used. Subsequent boosters are typically indicated every 1 to 3 years based on local legal requirements and product labels.
• Legal Mandates: In many jurisdictions, rabies vaccination is a legal requirement for dogs (and sometimes cats) over four months of age. 

ADMINISTRATION

• Route: Most commonly subcutaneous (under the skin) in the hind leg. 
• Site Selection: Different sites are normally used for different vaccines. to prevent confusion and separate vaccine reactions.
• Technique: A sterile syringe and needle are used. The skin is lifted, the vaccine is injected, and the needle is pulled back slightly to ensure it’s not in a blood vessel before injecting.
• Sterilization: Avoid using chemicals like alcohol or disinfectants on the skin before injection, as they can interfere with vaccine efficacy. 

• Cats & Dogs: A 1 mL dose is administered either subcutaneously (under the skin) or intramuscularly (into the muscle).
• Ferrets: A 1 mL dose is administered only subcutaneously.
• Sheep, Cattle & Horses: A 2 mL dose is administered either subcutaneously or intramuscularly.