What action should be taken for unvaccinated animals exposed to rabies?

The appropriate action for unvaccinated animals exposed to rabies is to administer a boost and isolate for 180 days or euthanize. This approach is in line with established public health protocols to manage the risk of rabies transmission.

When an unvaccinated animal comes into contact with a rabid animal, the risk of rabies exposure is significant. The 180-day isolation period allows for careful monitoring of the animal for any signs of rabies, which is crucial since the disease has a long incubation period and may not show symptoms immediately. Euthanasia may be considered to eliminate the risk of potential rabies spread, particularly if isolation is not feasible or the animal's health is compromised.

Other approaches, such as letting the animals roam freely for observation, would be irresponsible as it puts other animals and humans at risk. Simply vaccinating the animals without addressing the immediate exposure is also inadequate, as the vaccine requires time to take effect and does not provide immediate protection. A brief 10-day isolation does not account for the full incubation period of rabies, making it insufficient for ensuring safety. Thus, the correct choice reflects the necessary precautions to mitigate the serious threat posed by rabies exposure in unvaccinated animals.