Rabies

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General information on Rabies

Rabies is a viral disease that is transmitted from mammals by saliva. Transmission of Rabies is usually from a bite that breaks the skin. This disease can also be transmitted by inhalation of the airborne virus. Bats, raccoons and skunks are a primary source for Rabies. If an infected animal bites your dog the incubation period is usually between 3 to 8 weeks and in some cases it can be up to six months or longer.

Symptoms of Rabies

There are 3 stages in rabies symptoms.

The prodromal phase of rabies will last around two to three days and the dog will aggressively lick his wound and will start to have some mild behavioral changes. They may snap and be more irritable and apprehensive. A fever may also be present.

The furious phase of rabies can last from one to seven days and there will be radical changes in temperament including viciousness, roaming, irritability, and at times will attack objects for no apparent reason.

The paralytic phase of rabies include foaming at the mouth and salivating. This is because the nerves affecting the head are now damaged and the dog may not be able to swallow. As the diaphragm muscles become paralyzed the dogs breathing will become more difficult.

The dog will eventually die.

Treatments for Rabies

Once the dog has reached the clinical symptoms of rabies, there is nothing that can be done to save the dog.
Vaccination is the only way to prevent the infection. Dogs that are properly vaccinated have very little chance of contracting the disease. If any of the clinical signs appear, take your dog to the vet immediately.

Personal Experience

Rabies - personal experiences