Rabies in dogs. Causes, symptoms and treatments

Rabies is transmitted through the bite of an infected dog to a healthy dogor through an open wound that is exposed to the saliva of an infected animal, such as by licking. Once the bite has occurred, the rabies virus infiltrates the muscle cells, where it reproduces, and then spreads to the peripheral nerves of the host animal, finally reaching the brain.

The time between rabies virus infection and the first symptoms, also called the virus incubation period, in dogs is usually two weeks to three monthsHowever, the speed at which it develops The clinical signs depend on several factors such as:

• bite severity;
• site of infection: the closer the bite is to the brain and spinal cord, the faster the virus will reach the nervous tissue;
• the amount of virus injected into the bite.

What are the symptoms of rabies virus infection

Following an infection with the rabies virus, the disease evolves into two forms, namely:

• form which I have also called furious rage – occurs when the rabid dog becomes aggressive and shows signs of a depraved appetite, including eating dirt or stones. Another characteristic of this form is the change in the dog’s temperament. Thus, usually calm dogs become more agitated and those who are usually active and lively become nervous, shy and «lazy». At the same time, the dog may become very affectionate or more reserved than usual; isolates or consumes a large amount of water. Other symptoms present are sensitivity to noise, light or any touch, change in voice or desire to leave the cage or house. In this form, paralysis eventually sets in and the rabid animal becomes unable to eat or drink water and will also exhibit excessive salivation.
• form 2 also called paralytic rabies – is the most common form of rabies in dogs, which involves progressive paralysis of the limbs, facial distortion and difficulty swallowing. In the case of the latter symptom, many dog ​​owners tend to confuse rabies with the possibility that an object has become stuck in the dog’s mouth or throat. For this reason it is very important to observe the other signals and the entire behavior of the quadruped very carefully. Furthermore, dogs in this stage will present as symptoms a confused look, sadness and difficulty responding to their owner’s commands.

The most effective way to reduce the risk of rabies is the rabies vaccinewhich promotes the production of antibodies. The rabies vaccine is part of the series of mandatory vaccinesbeing included in the vaccination scheme of junior dogs and subsequently, through annual repetitions. Being the only method to keep under control the evolution and transmission of the diseasethe rabies vaccine is also useful for human safety because, as previously mentioned, rabies is a disease transmissible from animals to humans.

It is very important to note that the rabies vaccine is only effective if it is administered before the virus enters the nervous system.

So, being one of the deadly diseases among dogs, Unfortunately, anger has no cure. The only way to avoid it is through rabies vaccination and protection from other carrier dogs or animals.