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.
Table of Contents
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
- Hold the dog calmly — Take help from a trusted local feeder or dog lover.
- Choose the injection site — Back of the neck (scruff area) or hind thigh.
- Clean the area with antiseptic.
- Inject 1 ml subcutaneously (under the skin).
- 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.
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