Street Dog Rabies Vaccine: Step-by-Step Guide

India has one of the highest street dog populations in the world — and with that comes the responsibility to protect them from one of the deadliest diseases: Rabies. Every year, thousands of dogs and humans are affected due to lack of vaccination.

But what if you, as a kind feeder or pet lover, could help stop this?
Here’s how to safely and successfully vaccinate street dogs against rabies — step by step guide.

Why Rabies Vaccination Is So Important

• Rabies is 100% fatal once symptoms appear — in both dogs and humans.
• The virus spreads through bites or saliva of infected animals.
• A single vaccine shot can save lives and prevent a public health threat.
• It also builds trust between humans and street dogs — reducing fear and violence.

Step-by-Step Guide to Vaccinate Street Dogs

---

1. Choose the Right Vaccine

Pick any inactivated (killed) rabies vaccine approved for veterinary use:

Popular & Trusted Brands in India:

• Raksharab (Indian Immunologicals)
• Nobivac Rabies (MSD Animal Health)
• Rabigen Mono (Boehringer Ingelheim)

➡️ You can get these from local veterinary stores or online pet pharma platforms.

---

2. What You Need (Supplies Checklist)

Item	Purpose
Rabies vaccine vial (1 ml per dog)	The actual shot
1 ml syringe with 24/25 gauge needle	For injection
Cotton + antiseptic	Clean injection site
Gloves (disposable)	For safety and hygiene
Ice box or thermos	To keep vaccine cold (2–8°C)
Marker or chalk	To mark vaccinated dogs
Treats	To calm or distract the dog

---

3. Ideal Time to Vaccinate

• Morning or early evening (dogs are calm, not overheated)
• Avoid rainy or harsh cold weather
• Try to vaccinate when the dog is resting post-meal

---

4. How to Give the Injection Safely

1. Hold the dog calmly — Take help from a trusted local feeder or dog lover.
2. Choose the injection site — Back of the neck (scruff area) or hind thigh.
3. Clean the area with antiseptic.
4. Inject 1 ml subcutaneously (under the skin).
5. Mark the dog with safe chalk or colored collar to identify.

🛑 If you’re uncomfortable injecting:

Ask help from a nearby NGO, compounder, vet assistant or trained feeder.

---

5. Post-Vaccination Care

• Most dogs don’t react — but some may feel sleepy or get mild swelling at the site.
• Offer water, food and let them rest.
• Avoid handling or bathing the dog for the next 24–48 hours.
• Note the date and dog’s photo or location for future booster shots.

---

6. Vaccination Schedule

Age	Vaccine	Notes
3 months	1st rabies shot	Start here for pups
After 1 year	Booster dose	Stronger long-term immunity
Then annually	1 shot every year	Maintain protection

---

Extra Tips for Successful Street Vaccination

• Use boiled chicken, eggs or biscuits to calm the dog
• Always stay calm and patient — they sense fear
• In groups? Do 2–3 dogs per day to avoid chaos
• Use chalk, tags or colored ribbon to mark vaccinated dogs
• Collaborate with local animal welfare volunteers if possible

---

Cost Breakdown (Per Dog)

Item	Cost (Approx.)
Vaccine vial	₹45 – ₹80
Syringe & needle	₹5 – ₹10
Total	₹50 – ₹90 per dog

---

❤️ Final Woof

By giving just 1 shot of vaccine, you’re protecting a street dog from death, a human from danger and a community from crisis. Rabies control starts with us — the feeders, the rescuers, the dog lovers who believe every life matters.

Be the one who doesn’t walk past. Be the one who protects.
🐾 One dog. One vaccine. One world safer.