Trends in anti-rabies vaccination in dogs: A 13-year analysis

Abstract

Rabies is a fatal zoonotic viral disease that continues to pose a significant public health challenge in India, despite the availability of effective vaccines. Dogs remain the principal reservoir, and vaccination of pet animals forms a critical component of rabies prevention and control strategies. The present study aimed to analyse long-term trends in anti-rabies vaccination dispensed to pet animals at the Madras Veterinary College Teaching Hospital, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, over a 13-year period (2010-2022). A retrospective analysis was conducted using secondary data obtained from the pet vaccination register maintained at the pharmacy of the Department of Clinics. Year-wise records of anti-rabies vaccine doses dispensed through routine outpatient services were compiled and analysed descriptively to assess temporal trends. The results revealed a steady and substantial increase in anti-rabies vaccination over the study period, with an overall rise of 162.47% from 2010 to 2022. Minor declines were observed in 2011 and a marked reduction in 2020, which coincided with the COVID-19 pandemic and associated disruptions to routine veterinary services. The increasing trend reflects improved awareness among pet owners, enhanced access to veterinary healthcare, and the positive impact of sustained public health education initiatives. However, the data represent only paid vaccinations and do not include free mass vaccination drives, suggesting that actual vaccination coverage may be higher. Despite improved vaccination uptake among owned pets, rabies elimination remains challenging due to large free-roaming dog populations. Strengthening integrated vaccination strategies, including approaches targeting inaccessible dogs, is essential to reduce rabies transmission and achieve long-term control and elimination.