Signs And Symptoms Of Rabies In Dogs (Part 1)

Canine rabies is a virus that first collects in a canine’s muscles before attacking their central nervous system, brain, and spinal cord, eventually infiltrating their salivary glands.

In almost 100% of all cases, rabies kills its animal host, though the virus cannot survive outside of an animal or human host.

Approximately 1,000,000 animals and 60,000 humans die from rabies annually. Dogs are the virus’ most common carriers, though wild animals such as raccoons, foxes, and bats are also common carriers of the disease. In most dogs, they develop rabies through contact with the saliva of another animal – typically through a bite. The virus can also be transmitted through organ transplants, the eyes, nose, and mouth, and via aerosol transmission.

To prevent rabies from being transmitted to your dog, you can:

1. Vaccinate. Vaccination is the most effective preventative method against rabies and can allow a dog to survive transmission.
2. Keep Them Away. Keep your dog away from wild animals and stray dogs, and opt for park walks instead of trips through the wild woods.
3. Use A Leash. Make sure you can control your dog when you’re out and about, so keep them on a leash. They should also know basic obedience commands.

If you believe a dog has rabies, you must report them to an animal control center immediately to protect other animals. We’ll talk more about rabies symptoms in our next article.

If you believe your dog has rabies, restrain them in a crate and try to avoid touching your dog without thick gloves. Do not approach their mouth if they are salivating. Bring them to a vet immediately.

Feature Image Source: Pixabay