Abstract

This research examines the efficacy of a monovalent rabies vaccine in immune-compromised African wild dogs (Lycaon pictus) and the impact of stress reduction on vaccine response. Stress, due to transportation and acclimatization to a new environment, adversely affects the immune system and can reduce vaccine efficacy. Our findings demonstrate that while a combination of vaccines resulted in a lower antibody titer, the monovalent rabies vaccine significantly improved antibody levels after stressors were removed. Despite this improvement in immune response, reintegration of the treated individual into the pack remains problematic due to challenges associated with the separation and subsequent social dynamics post-treatment. This underscores the importance of managing stress and providing individual care to enhance vaccine efficacy and ensure successful social reintegration.

Keywords

African wild dog, monovalent rabies vaccine, immune response, rabies titer, welfare