Rabies is caused by a virus that invades the central nervous system, disrupting normal functions. Rabies spreads through the saliva of infected animals. Therefore, the most common way of contracting rabies being bitten by an infected animal. Many animals who have not have rabies vaccinations contract rabies from fighting with infected wildlife. In most cases, dogs infected with rabies take one week to three months before showing signs.
Instructions
Watch the dog for a change in behavior. However, keep in mind that digestive conditions and other problems also may cause this symptom. Typical rabies-related behavior changes include: loss of appetite, withdrawn dogs that were once playful and active, vicious behaviors, paralysis and biting.
Check the dog's temperature. A fever is another sign of rabies.
Look for an animal bite. Dogs may chew and scratch at the bite site. Changes in the behavior, along with a bite, can be indicative of rabies. However, remember since some symptoms do not appear for months, the bite mark may have since healed.
Check for further signs of the "mad dog phase." In the next phase of rabies, the dog becomes very violent and may foam at the mouth. Other symptoms of this phase include: constant growling or barking, dilated pupils, odd cravings, eating objects that are not edible, disorientation, aggression, anxiety, hyperactivity or restlessness, roaming, seizures, irritability, drooling and trembling. Keep yourself and others away from the animal once it reaches this phase. It can attack you at any time.
Watch for the final phase, death. In the last phase, your dog may appear to be choking with a dropping of the lower jaw and more foaming at the mouth. The jaw becomes paralyzed, as well as all chewing muscles. Eventually, the paralysis spreads and the dog enters a coma and dies.