Beware: Another Drought-Related Problem Is Rabies

The record-breaking water crisis in California has led to agricultural and economic problems, but another side effect of the drought has emerged: an increase in the risk of rabies.

As summer approaches, more wild animals are looking for water and coming closer to homes, according to San Mateo health officials. This drought-amplified trend endangers humans and pets who may be spending more time outside.

“Getting your pet vaccinated is the only way to protect them and the entire community against rabies, which is 100 percent fatal in animals and usually fatal in people if not treated right away,” Dr. Julia Wang-Lewis, veterinarian at Humane Society Silicon Valley, said in a statement.

Rabies can be spread and transmitted via saliva from animal bites. Pets, after contracting the disease, may also spread the disease to other humans and animals they interact with.

County health officials stress that the disease is 100 percent preventable and urge the public to take responsibility for their pets, their families, and themselves by getting their pets vaccinated for rabies.

• PHOTO: Hawkeye is available for adoption. He is at the East Bay SPCA - Oakland. To see other pets in need of homes, visit the Berkeley Humane Society, Valley Humane Society in Pleasanton -- View a Complete List of East Bay Shelters.