Fake vaccination certificates endanger animal and human health
Berlin. The Federal Veterinary Association is issuing a warning following a case of rabies in a puppy in Rhineland-Palatinate (BTK) Once again, caution when taking in dogs from animal shelters abroad. According to the vaccination certificate, the affected puppy from Russia was vaccinated against rabies. However, as things currently stand, it must be assumed that either no effective vaccination has taken place or the vaccination record has been falsified.
Germany has been considered rabies-free since 2008 – which means that rabies is hardly perceived as a real threat in this country. However, the disease remains a serious problem in many regions of the world. “The current case clearly shows that rabies can be reintroduced to Germany at any time,” says BTK President Ltd. VD Dr. Holger Vogel. “There is a real risk, especially for dogs from countries with endemic rabies – especially if vaccination documents are not reliable,” warns Dr. Bird. Rabies vaccination is mandatory for dogs, cats and ferrets when traveling in Europe and is documented in the EU pet passport. Modern rabies vaccines now offer protection for up to three years and are officially recognized. Every animal owner can make a valuable contribution to combating this disease worldwide. “Pet owners should have dogs and cats consistently and routinely vaccinated against rabies. Complete, reliable vaccination protection is the most important preventative measure,” explains the BTK President.
Rabies is a viral disease that requires control and is always fatal after the onset of clinical symptoms – in both animals and humans. Medical treatment for sick animals is not possible. Animals without sufficient vaccination protection must be killed if infection is suspected. For people after contact with an animal suspected of having rabies, the only life-saving measure is an immediate vaccination, the so-called post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). This must be initiated immediately.
The BTK appeals to all pet owners to obtain comprehensive information before taking in a dog from abroad and to only work with reputable organizations that guarantee transparent health certificates and proper veterinary care. “Animal protection must not endanger public health,” warns Dr. Bird.
Federal Veterinary Association (BTK)