Rabies in a Nutshell

Rabies

• Disease that affects the brain and is always fatal once symptoms develop.
• All dogs and cats are at risk.
• Animals can exhibit tremors and weakness as well as drastic changes in behavior such as extreme aggression.
• There is no treatment.
• Prognosis is poor.
• Wildlife carriers: Skunks, foxes, bats and others.
• Zoonotic disease: Humans can be infected from animals.

Rabies Vaccination: 1 Year vs 3 Year

When an animal has no previous vaccinations, a vaccination is initially given to stimulate the immune system.  In 2-4 weeks, a second vaccine is given that will produce a long (usually one year) immune response.  Although most vaccines are used this way, the Rabies vaccine is different.  Only one Rabies vaccination is required to get at least one year of immunity.  in order to get a longer (three year) immune response, a Rabies vaccine with a special long lasting "adjuvant" should be given one year after the first Rabies vaccine.  The adjuvant is that part of the vaccine that makes it lasts longer in the animal's body.  So, the type of adjuvant is the main difference between the 1 year and 3 year Rabies vaccines.

Pros and Cons: 1 Year vs 3 Year

If you get the annual core vaccines then getting a 1 year rabies may be easier to remember.  Otherwise, you would have to keep track of two schedules.  On the other hand, getting a three year rabies would be less expensive in the long run.
If you only get a rabies shot, then the three year rabies is more economical, as long as you don't forget when you got it.
Both are equally safe and effective for their respective time periods.