You are walking down the street, and a typical stray dog suddenly rushes upon you, bites you, and runs away. What are you going to do?

Having a companion pet, may it be a dog or a cat, can be pretty amazing, especially when you are alone. But how sure are you that the pet you are carrying every morning during breakfast and every night when you come home from work, doesn't have rabies?

Did you know that a single bite or even a simple scratch from an animal can cause you to have rabies? Often, untreated exposures may end up fatal. According to the World Health Organization in 2017, rabies causes thousands of deaths every year because of limited access to health and veterinary systems.

Unfortunately, you can't tell if an animal has rabies by just looking at it. Though, you can see some signs early on. Some infected animals usually act strangely, either too aggressively or too quietly. When some animals have rabies, they can be very aggressive and attack everything they see, even if it doesn't bother them. They may try to bite you, your children, and your pets.

Furthermore, rabies doesn't have a cure, but it can surely be prevented. Follow us as we list the most important things you need to do to avoid contracting this disease.

1. Stay away from stray animals

Eye contact is one of the signs of aggression among stray animals. Look away and leave them alone. Don't even try to provoke them or have contact with them. Don't try to carry, feed, or attract them with food, especially not your hands.

2. Don't nurture wild animals as pets

Taking wild animals is often an impulsive decision, and oftentimes, you won't be sure what quality of life they need. Many of us assume that if we find a baby wild animal, it needs help. You may be trying to help, but that may not be needed. They may appear to be friendly, but they are more likely to be infected with rabies and could even attack you and your pet. Bringing wild animals into your home puts you and your family at unnecessary risk. 

3. Vaccinate your pets

Always keep vaccinations up-to-date for all your pets. This is important not only to keep them from getting rabies but also to protect you, your family, and even visitors within your vicinity against dangerous viral and bacterial diseases.

4. Don't disturb them especially when they are eating

Pets can be your best friends, but they may suddenly bite you when they are angry or scared, particularly when they are being disturbed. Some of them want to be hand-fed, but wouldn't it be nice to eat in peace with little to no interruption?

5. Wound washing is essential

If an animal bites, you better act quickly. Also know that this disease's fatality is not measurable through the size of its wound. Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water right away to reduce the risk of infection spreading. Then go straight to the hospital for appropriate medical attention.