* Rabies is diagnosed post-mortem. A rabies diagnosis is only possible by examining brain tissue from a deceased animal. This is because the virus is present in saliva and brain tissue but not easily detectable in blood or other bodily fluids.
* Observation is key. If a dog is exhibiting symptoms of rabies, such as aggression, paralysis, foaming at the mouth, or unusual behavior, it's highly likely the animal has the disease. However, a veterinarian would need to isolate the animal and take a history of the dog's potential exposure to infected animals to determine the need for further testing.
Here's what a vet *does* when a dog is potentially exposed to rabies:
1. Assess the situation. The vet will take a detailed history of the exposure (e.g., what animal was involved, how the exposure happened, etc.).
2. Determine the risk. Based on the information gathered, the vet will assess the likelihood of the dog contracting rabies.
3. Isolate the dog. The dog will likely need to be isolated for observation, particularly if there's a high risk of rabies infection.
4. Vaccinate or booster. If the dog is not already vaccinated against rabies, they'll be vaccinated immediately. If they are already vaccinated, a booster shot may be recommended.
5. Monitor for signs of rabies. The vet will monitor the dog closely for any signs of rabies.
Remember:
* Rabies is a serious and fatal disease.
* If you think your dog has been exposed to rabies, contact your veterinarian immediately.
* Be aware of the signs of rabies in animals and avoid contact with any animal exhibiting these symptoms.
Don't attempt to diagnose rabies yourself. Always seek professional veterinary care.