I have to jump in here and talk about our state we live in Alabama !!! I am a "Damn Yankee" ...lol. (Michigander not returning) So, with that said I am from a northern part of the US and know that in the south it is totally different here. I have discussed this subject with my vet in Alabama of the rabies vaccinations and why they are given so often. I personally don't like it as I stated in my previous post on this thread, whether I like it or not is not the issue it is "Alabama Law"- every year ~Michigan's is every 3 years.
I have since understood why?? coyote in my back yard, yes!!! Come up to the house, Yes. Are they afraid of me, NO!!!. Hearing Panthers screaming in the woods, Yes. Seeing a Bobcat once in a while, yes... Raccoons,armadillo,(sp?) squirrel ground and flying, chipmunks, to many many critters to list.(And don't get me started on the BUGS !!! lol) Do I watch my dogs resounding
"All the time" Could a accident happen
"You bet it could" Am I willing to take that chance,
"Absolutely NOT!!!"
I guess what I am saying is Alabama is a host for many variety of wild life. This state does not host the population that say, Florida, California or Michigan does. This puts us in a higher category for rabies (more area and higher wild life population), whether cases have been reported would be smaller due to population. Not to mention, It is a sad place for animals (no offense any Alabamians, not referring to you, here on YT) I can tell you so many times I see dogs dropped off with ribs sticking out their sides, starved. They will feed a cow, before a dog here.
Many are what I call backyard dogs.... No vaccinations, no heartguard protection, flea & tick, or what we would consider basic care. It breaks my heart. My vet has made the comment to me that she wished more people in this state would take their pet in consideration the way I do. So, this is just not me making this statement.
The wonderful thing about living in America we have choices... And we have to live by our choices and be accountable for those choices.
All, I can say from here is I hope gcook your little girls is doing better today !!! 
Please keep us posted on how she is doing...