Re: ridecamp-d Digest V00 #39

[Ajsclassgs@aol.com]

In a message dated 01/07/2000 7:46:13 PM Mountain Standard Time, 
ridecamp-d-request@endurance.net writes:

<< I thought you could only contract rabies through a bite.
 
 How were they exposed?? >>

I work at the Montana State Veterinary Diagnostic lab and we get samples in 
for testing on both small and large animals almost daily.  Most of these are 
negative, however there are areas of our state where rabies is quite 
prevalent.  Exposure can come from a scratch or a bite.  Also consider if you 
were handling a rabies suspect animal and might have an open wound on your 
hand (previous cut, scratch, etc.).  Generally we test suspects as human 
exposure (what most people submit them as) unless all known contact has been 
with gloves etc, or the history indicates very little chance of exposure (ie: 
skunk chasing dogs, animal exposure only).  If you get a positive on a rabies 
case, it's a case of better safe than sorry with getting treatment (however 
it is quite expensive).  This isn't a disease that one takes their chances 
with.  And yes, I do vaccinate my horses and other pets for rabies and 
because of where I work I am vaccinated as well... but if I have an exposure, 
would still have to take some extra precautionary steps.  

Anne & the horses in Montana
Dyskrete, Stuffy, Hadia & Tifla


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