What is Rabies in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

4 min readSep 27, 2023

Introduction

Rabies dog is a deadly viral disease that affects both animals and humans. While it can affect various mammals, dogs are among the most common carriers and victims of this virus. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for rabies in dogs is essential to protect both our four-legged friends and ourselves from this menacing disease.

What is Rabies?

Rabies is a viral disease caused by the rabies virus, which belongs to the Lyssavirus genus. This virus is typically transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, usually via bites or scratches. Once the virus enters the body, it travels along the nerves towards the central nervous system and eventually the brain. Once it reaches the brain, the virus rapidly multiplies and then spreads to other organs, ultimately leading to severe neurological symptoms and, if left untreated, death.

Causes of Rabies in Dogs

Rabies in dogs is primarily caused by the bite or scratch of an infected animal. The rabies virus is most commonly transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, making bites the most frequent mode of transmission. Wild animals, such as raccoons, skunks, bats, and foxes, are common carriers of the virus and can pass it on to domestic dogs during encounters. Stray dogs or other infected domestic animals can also transmit rabies to pets through fights or close contact.

Symptoms of Rabies in Dogs

Rabies symptoms in dogs can be divided into three stages: prodromal, furious, and paralytic.

Prodromal Stage:

Behavioral changes: Dogs may become anxious, restless, or irritable.
Fever
Excessive salivation
Discomfort or pain at the site of the bite or scratch

Furious Stage:

Aggression: Infected dogs may become unusually aggressive and may attack people or other animals.
Restlessness and hyperactivity
Disorientation and aimless wandering
Excessive barking or howling
Difficulty swallowing, leading to a characteristic foaming at the mouth

Paralytic Stage:

Muscle paralysis, often beginning at the hind legs and progressing towards the front legs and neck
Difficulty breathing and eventual respiratory failure
Coma
Death

It’s important to note that once clinical symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal in dogs. Therefore, rapid diagnosis and treatment are crucial.

Diagnosing Rabies in Dogs

Diagnosing rabies in dogs can be challenging, as there are no specific symptoms that conclusively confirm the disease during its early stages. Clinical signs and history of exposure to potentially rabid animals play a significant role in diagnosis. To confirm rabies, brain tissue examination is required, which can only be performed post-mortem.

Treatment for Rabies in Dogs

Unfortunately, there is no cure for rabies once clinical symptoms appear. The disease is almost always fatal. Therefore, prevention and immediate intervention following exposure are vital.

Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP): If a dog is bitten or scratched by an animal suspected of carrying rabies, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Post-exposure prophylaxis involves a series of rabies vaccinations to prevent the virus from progressing in the dog’s body. This treatment is highly effective when administered early after exposure.
Quarantine: Dogs that have been exposed to a potentially rabid animal should be placed in quarantine for observation. If the exposed dog shows symptoms of rabies during this period, it is typically euthanized to prevent the spread of the virus.

Preventing Rabies in Dogs

Prevention is the key to avoiding rabies in dogs. Here are some essential steps to protect your canine companion:

Vaccination: Ensure that your dog receives regular rabies vaccinations as recommended by your veterinarian. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent rabies.
Supervision: Keep a close eye on your dog when it’s outside, especially in areas where encounters with wild animals are likely.
Avoid Interactions with Wildlife: Discourage your dog from approaching or interacting with wild animals. Do not feed or encourage contact with stray or unknown animals.
Leash Laws: Follow leash laws in your area to prevent your dog from roaming freely and potentially encountering rabid animals.
Report Suspicious Wildlife: If you notice any wild animals acting strangely or aggressively, contact local animal control or wildlife authorities. Do not attempt to handle or approach them.

Conclusion

Rabies dog is a deadly disease that poses a significant threat to dogs and humans alike. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for rabies in dogs is crucial for preventing its spread and ensuring the safety of our pets. Remember that prevention, through regular vaccinations and responsible pet ownership, is the most effective way to protect your beloved dog from this devastating disease. If you suspect your dog has been exposed to rabies, seek immediate medical attention to initiate post-exposure prophylaxis and increase the chances of a favorable outcome.