Last Updated on June 4, 2024 by Dogs Vets
Recognizing the early signs of rabies in dogs is crucial for ensuring their wellbeing and protecting human health. Rabies is a deadly viral disease that affects the nervous system and brain of mammals, including dogs.
Observing symptoms such as restlessness, vomiting, or fever can be indicative of the initial stages of the illness.
As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms like aggression, seizures, paralysis, and foaming at the mouth may occur. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent rabies, emphasizing the importance of regular veterinary care.
Understanding how to spot these symptoms early on can make a significant difference in managing the disease. Learn how to safeguard your pet by recognizing these critical signs and taking necessary preventative steps.
Recognizing Rabies Symptoms in Dogs
Rabies in dogs can manifest through significant behavioral changes, alarming physical symptoms, and harsh advanced stages. Early recognition is crucial for timely veterinary intervention.
Behavioral Changes
Dogs with rabies often exhibit drastic behavioral shifts. They might become increasingly agitated and display uncharacteristic aggression. Restlessness is common, with some dogs appearing paranoid or fearful of their surroundings.
Additionally, such dogs may be overly sensitive to light, sound, or touch. An initially affectionate dog might suddenly grow irritable and bite without provocation. This unpredictable aggression poses a severe risk.
In some cases, infected dogs might seek solitude as the virus affects their brain, altering their usual social behavior. If you suspect these signs, seeking help from a veterinarian or dog bite injury attorney may be necessary.
Physical Symptoms
Physical symptoms are equally telling. Dogs with rabies might start drooling excessively. This is due to paralysis in the facial muscles, making swallowing difficult.
Fever, vomiting, and muscle pain can also be initial signs. Some dogs might develop pica, chewing on non-food items like stones or dirt. Additionally, they could be seen staggering or suffering from seizures.
Hydrophobia, a fear of water observed in humans, is not typically seen in dogs. Instead, watch for signs of throat spasms that make drinking difficult. This unusual resistance to drinking can be a critical indicator.
Advanced Stages of Rabies
In the advanced stages, symptoms worsen significantly. Paralysis begins to set in, starting from the hind legs and moving upwards. This can lead to a complete inability to move.
Respiratory failure often follows as the virus affects the diaphragm and chest muscles. Dogs may also exhibit continuous drooling and may not be able to close their mouths. Convulsions and severe neurological symptoms prevail.
At this point, the prognosis is grim. Immediate veterinary assistance is imperative, and contacting a dog bite injury attorney can be crucial if someone has been bitten.
Rabies in People
Rabies presents differently in humans and dogs, although there are overlapping symptoms due to the nature of the virus affecting the nervous system.
In humans, rabies symptoms typically begin with non-specific signs such as fever, headache, and general weakness. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms emerge, including anxiety, confusion, agitation, hallucinations, and hydrophobia (fear of water).
Hydrophobia and aerophobia (fear of air drafts) are particularly characteristic of rabies in humans. Eventually, the disease leads to paralysis, coma, and death if untreated.
In dogs, the initial symptoms can include behavioral changes such as increased aggression or unusual friendliness, excessive drooling, and difficulty swallowing.
As the disease progresses, dogs may exhibit signs of paralysis, particularly in the jaw and throat muscles, leading to the classic “foaming at the mouth” appearance. Dogs may also show signs of hyperactivity and seizures (Aurora Veterinary Hospital).
Both humans and dogs can exhibit furious rabies, characterized by hyperactivity and aggression, or paralytic rabies, which involves muscle paralysis and eventual coma. However, the progression and specific manifestations can vary, with humans often showing more pronounced psychiatric symptoms and fears such as hydrophobia and aerophobia.
Prevention and Response
Preventing rabies in dogs is crucial for protecting both pets and humans from this deadly virus. Immediate action is required if rabies is suspected in any dog.
Vaccination and Prevention
Regular vaccination is the most effective method to prevent rabies in dogs. According to Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, dogs should be vaccinated at 12 weeks, at one year, and every three years thereafter. Vaccines must be administered by a licensed veterinarian.
Rabies vaccines are highly effective. Ensuring that all pets are vaccinated can significantly reduce the risk of rabies outbreaks. Not only does vaccination protect the pet, but it also safeguards the broader community.
In regions with high rabies incidence, managing stray animals and wildlife can help control the spread.
What to Do if You Suspect Rabies
If a dog shows signs of rabies, like agitation or abnormal behavior, contact a veterinarian immediately. CDC guidance advises observing a suspected rabid animal for ten days post-bite in close coordination with public health authorities.
Avoid direct contact with the potentially infected dog. Keep the animal confined and isolated to prevent the risk of transmission. If bitten, seek medical treatment without delay.
If legal guidance is required, especially following a dog bite incident, consulting a dog bite injury attorney can be beneficial. They can provide assistance in navigating the legal complexities related to rabies exposure and bites.
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