Chelsea Animal Hospital

09/28/2026

September 28 is chosen as World Rabies Day because it marks the anniversary of the death of Louis Pasteur, the French chemist and microbiologist who developed the very first effective rabies vaccine.
How Rabies is Transmitted
Rabies is a vaccine-preventable, zoonotic viral disease that targets the central nervous system. Because the rabies lyssavirus is highly concentrated in the salivary glands of an infected host, transmission primarily relies on fluid-to-tissue contact.
Animal Bites: This is the most common route. In up to 99% of human cases globally, domestic and stray dogs are responsible for transmitting the virus via a bite. In parts of the world like North America, wildlife such as bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes are the primary transmitters.
Scratches and Open Wounds: Transmission can happen if an infected animal scratches a person, breaking the skin, or if its infected saliva comes into contact with an existing, open wound.
Mucous Membranes: The virus can be transmitted if infected saliva makes direct contact with a person’s wet membranes, such as the eyes, nose, or mouth (for example, if an infected animal licks a person's face)

09/23/2026

Notice: We will be closing at 12:30 pm on Saturday, September 26th instead of our normal time of 1 pm. Please plan accordingly.

09/19/2026

Key Pillars of Responsible Ownership
-Health & Wellness: “Health & Wellness (vet visits, vaccinations, nutrition)”, as noted by Facebook. Schedule routine checkups and keep vaccines up to date.
-Training & Enrichment: “Training & Enrichment (confidence and bonding through positive training)” keeps your dog mentally sharp and well-behaved, according to Facebook.
-Safety & Identification: Use secure leashes, ID tags, and microchips so your pet can always be traced back to you.
-Hygiene & Maintenance: Trim nails every 3 to 4 weeks and manage parasite prevention for fleas, ticks, and heartworms.

09/14/2026

09/13/2026

How People Observe the Day
-Sharing memories: Many pet owners post photos, stories, and tributes online using the hashtag .
-Creating tributes: Activities include making photo albums, lighting a candle, displaying a pet's urn, or planting a memorial tree or garden.
-Giving back: People often donate money or volunteer at local animal shelters and humane societies in their pet's honor.
-Visiting resting places: Some visit pet cemeteries or favorite outdoor spots associated with their animal companion.

09/07/2026

Call us if you need help or have questions!

09/06/2026

Call today to schedule your cats annual appointment! We love helping to keep your pets healthy!

09/04/2026

National Disaster Preparedness Month
Prepare Pets for Travel
When evacuating your home, it’s important to bring your pets. Because you may need to put your cat or dog into a pet carrier, it’s important that they’re comfortable with the experience.
Follow these tips to reduce their stress:

-Leave the carrier out in places your pet frequently visits
-Leave the carrier open
-Feed them treats near the carrier – you can even try putting a few treats inside the carrier
-Add a favorite blanket or small bed inside the carrier so it smells familiar
-Make note of where your pets hide, so you can easily find them in case you have to leave your house quickly.
Tips for Large Animals

If you have pets such as horses, goats or pigs on your property, be sure to prepare before a disaster.
In addition to the tips above:

-Ensure all animals have some form of identification.
-Evacuate animals earlier, whenever possible. Map out primary and secondary routes in advance.
-Make available vehicles and trailers needed for transporting and supporting each type of animal. Also make available experienced handlers and drivers.
-Ensure destinations have food, water, veterinary care and handling equipment.
If evacuation is not possible, animal owners must decide whether to move large animals to a barn or turn them loose outside.