Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus (RHDV) is a highly contagious and fatal disease caused by a calicivirus. RHDV is not contagious to people, but it affects both domestic rabbits and hares native to North America. Transmission of the disease occurs through contact with objects, animals, insects, or feces contaminated by the virus. Infected rabbits may develop a fever, be hesitant to eat, and display respiratory changes. However, many times the virus affects the body very quickly, resulting in sudden death. In the event of a possibly affected animal, please immediately report the case to your state wildlife officials, and do not touch them.
Protect Your Rabbit From RHDV
Mount Laurel Animal Hospital is working with Medgene Labs to provide RHDV2 vaccines to our clients. This annual vaccine has been shown through clinical trials to be 100% effective against RHDV2, amongst 105 rabbits in the study. A booster vaccine is required 21 days after the initial dose.
How To Get Protected
Existing Clients: If your rabbit has an up-to-date wellness exam within the past 12 months, and is in good standing, then you are welcome to come in for a brief vaccine clinic recheck appointment. Only 2 rabbits per family are to be scheduled on the allotted vaccine day.
New Clients: To ensure your rabbit is in good health, a wellness exam is required prior to receiving the vaccine. In an effort to protect as many rabbits as possible, we will be offering same-day vaccinations during these wellness exams, on vaccine clinic days.
Please, call our hospital at (856) 234-7626 or email our department directly at [email protected] to learn more about our vaccine clinic days!
At the time of booking your initial appointment, it is required to book your booster vaccine appointment to ensure you will be seen within the 21-day range.
Author: Dr. Amanda Steinagel