Rabies vaccination for stray animals in Tbilisi underway

The National Food Agency, in collaboration with the Animal Monitoring Agency, is conducting a rabies vaccination campaign targeting stray animals in Tbilisi.

Veterinarians recently vaccinated stray animals in the Varketili district as part of this joint effort. The vaccination process is being carried out in coordination with caregivers in the area.

“Rabies vaccinations are administered annually, and revaccination is scheduled based on the date of the previous vaccination,” the agency explained.

The ongoing vaccination campaign for stray animals extends across all districts of Tbilisi.

Rabies is a viral zoonotic disease that affects the brain and spinal cord, with fatal outcomes in both humans and animals once clinical symptoms appear.

Domestic pets, such as dogs and cats, as well as wild carnivores like foxes and wolves, are the primary carriers of the infection. The virus is typically transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal via bites, scratches, or contact with mucous membranes.

Annual preventive vaccination is crucial for protecting animals from rabies. It is advised to avoid contact with wild, stray, or unfamiliar animals. If you observe any symptoms of rabies in your pet, immediately consult a veterinarian. In case of a bite or scratch from an animal, wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water and seek advice from a rabies specialist promptly. Timely vaccination is the only effective way to prevent rabies infection in humans.

The National Food Agency conducts free rabies vaccinations nationwide each year, vaccinating approximately 300,000 dogs and cats.