September 28th, 2011 has been designated World Rabies Day.  Rabies is a world-wide problem causing thousands of human deaths every year—mostly in developing countries from the exposure to rabid dogs.   Rabies is also reported in every state except Hawaii.   Nearly 6,700 U.S. cases  were reported in 2009 primarily in wildlife, but included 4 cases in humans, 81 cases in dogs, and 300 in cats.   Getting your pet vaccinated is a great way to protect them (and yourself) from this fatal disease, and vaccination is legally required in most states.   A survey of our records at Palmer Animal Hospital show that 40% of dogs and 60% of cats are not up-to-date on their rabies vaccinations.  Is your pet at risk?   Feel free to give us a call today so we can check your pet’s vaccination status.