How are dogs effected from rabies?

How Rabies Affects Dogs: A Breakdown

Rabies is a deadly disease caused by a virus that affects the central nervous system. Here's how it impacts dogs:

Transmission:

* Bite: The primary way dogs get rabies is through a bite from an infected animal, usually another dog, but also potentially wild animals like bats, foxes, or raccoons.

* Saliva: The virus is present in saliva and can be transmitted through a bite, scratch, or lick on an open wound.

Progression:

* Incubation Period: The virus travels to the brain through nerves. This incubation period can vary from a few days to months.

* Initial Symptoms: Early symptoms are subtle and often mistaken for other illnesses. They may include:

* Fever

* Lethargy

* Loss of appetite

* Behavioral changes

* Changes in vocalization

* Progression to Neurological Symptoms: As the virus progresses, it causes neurological symptoms like:

* Paralysis

* Seizures

* Difficulty swallowing

* Exaggerated salivation

* Increased aggression

* Hydrophobia (fear of water)

* Death: Rabies is almost always fatal if untreated. The virus eventually causes paralysis and death, usually within 7 days of the onset of neurological symptoms.

Prevention:

* Vaccination: Rabies vaccination is the most effective way to protect your dog from this deadly disease.

* Avoiding Suspicious Animals: Keep your dog away from wild animals, especially if they seem sick or aggressive.

* Reporting Bites: If your dog is bitten by an animal, contact your veterinarian and local animal control immediately.

Treatment:

* Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP): If a dog is exposed to rabies, PEP is crucial. This involves a series of rabies vaccinations and sometimes the administration of rabies immunoglobulin.

Key Points:

* Rabies is a serious and fatal disease that can affect dogs.

* Vaccination is the most important way to protect your dog.

* Early symptoms can be subtle and mistaken for other illnesses.

* If your dog is bitten by an animal, seek medical attention immediately.

If you have any concerns about rabies, please consult your veterinarian.