Will Falconer, DVM Moderator
Hi Nikki,
I suspect the gene is a relatively small player in this disease. If a dog were multiply vaccinated for rabies over its life and developed rear end paralysis, I'd be inclined to associate the two, gene or no gene.
I think your course of avoid both the gene and the vaccine is likely a sound one. Just make sure you have your ducks in a row in case a bite to a person ever occurs. No history of rabies vaccine in a biting dog makes it easier for a knee jerk reaction if animal control isn't thinking clearly.