Which animal is a common domestic carrier of rabies?

Dogs are indeed a common domestic carrier of rabies, particularly in many parts of the world where rabies is still prevalent. Historically, dogs have been one of the primary vectors for rabies transmission to humans. The disease is typically transmitted through bites, as the virus is present in the saliva of infected animals. Although rabies can affect various animal species, including domesticated pets, it is the domesticated dog that has been most commonly associated with rabies outbreaks, especially in areas where rabies vaccination is not widely practiced.

While other animals such as cats, raccoons, and bats can also be carriers of rabies, they are not as consistently associated with human transmission in domestic settings. The prominence of dogs as rabies carriers is further emphasized by public health policies that often focus on vaccinating dogs as a primary measure to control the spread of rabies.

Overall, the role of dogs as common domestic carriers of rabies highlights the importance of responsible pet ownership, including vaccination, to prevent the spread of this zoonotic disease.