The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) has issued a reminder to animal owners about the importance of vaccinating pets and livestock. Officials stress that vaccination not only protects animals from diseases spread by other animals and insects but also helps safeguard human health.
“While you should always work with your veterinarian to determine what is best for the health of your animals, ensuring your animals are fully vaccinated plays a critical role in preventing numerous diseases,” said DACF Assistant State Veterinarian Dr. Rachael Fiske. Since diseases, such as rabies, affect both animals and people, vaccinating animals helps keep everyone healthy.
The department highlights that strong biosecurity practices are essential for protecting the health of pets, livestock, and communities. DACF offers resources and guidance on how to prevent the spread of animal diseases through its Maine DACF Biosecurity Resources page.
Horses in Maine are at risk for mosquito-borne illnesses like West Nile virus (WNV) and eastern equine encephalitis (EEE), both detected within the state. EEE is particularly dangerous due to its high fatality rate. Vaccination against these viruses, as well as tetanus, is recommended as part of routine equine care.
State law requires all dogs and cats in Maine to be vaccinated against rabies. The vaccine is also strongly advised for ferrets, horses, and livestock. Rabies remains almost always fatal and can be transmitted by wildlife common in Maine such as raccoons, skunks, bats, and foxes. Vaccination serves as the most effective method to protect both animals and humans from this disease; vaccines are available through licensed veterinarians.
In addition to rabies protection, dogs should receive vaccinations against parvovirus, adenovirus, parainfluenza, and leptospirosis—a disease that can infect both people and animals via wildlife exposure. Cats benefit from vaccines targeting feline leukemia, panleukopenia, herpes virus, and calicivirus.
Because parvovirus spreads easily where dogs congregate—such as dog parks—the DACF advises owners of puppies under six months old or those not fully vaccinated to avoid these areas until their pets are properly protected.
Domestic rabbits can now be vaccinated against rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus type 2 (RHDV2), an extremely contagious illness affecting only rabbits and hares. Although RHDV2 has not been found in Maine yet, it has appeared in other U.S. states and Canadian provinces; a U.S.-developed vaccine is available for added protection.
A single veterinary visit can help determine which vaccinations are needed for each animal species kept by an owner. The department emphasizes that vaccination remains a straightforward way to protect animal health along with public safety across agricultural and recreational communities in Maine.
For more information on animal health programs or disease prevention measures within the state visit https://www.maine.gov/dacf/ahw.
DACF acknowledges support from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development regarding this vaccination reminder.
