Rabies is a very frightening word which should and must prompt concern: it is a highly infectious disease which both dog and human parents should never neglect. However, this is not the only concern with rabies in dogs or the risk involved with owning a dog that has contracted the disease. Rabies in dogs is much more serious than in humans. The actual rabies symptoms in dogs are far worse than those that appear in humans.
Rabies is transmitted through the bite of an infected mammal. It is spread by biting or touching an animal that has been infected with rabies. Rabies in dogs may be diagnosed in two ways: clinical and subclinical. If your pet ever shows the signs of rabies, you need to see your veterinarian as quickly as possible; otherwise, your pet could be suffering from death. Rabies in dogs can occur at any time.
Rabies in dogs can be diagnosed through laboratory testing using fluorescent dye. A speculum is first used to collect a small amount of fluid from the head and the ears of the infected dog. Next, this fluid is sent to a lab where the results are interpreted. If the symptoms listed below are found in your pet, they should be treated using the appropriate treatment at that time.
The most common symptom is loss of coordination. Symptoms of rabies in dogs usually affect the eyes, brain, and lungs. The infected dog may also vomit or develop a choking cough. If a symptom is seen in these areas, it is not rabies but rather sepsis – a complication of rabies. Symptoms of sepsis include fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, and swollen lymph nodes under the skin.
Another sign that is more likely to occur in puppies than in older dogs is lameness, or the weakness or rigidity of the legs. Puppies that develop these signs within the first two weeks of life should be seen by a veterinarian. Over the first ten days of life in a dog that has rabies, lameness and muscle weakness are symptoms that only appear. However, if a dog is showing signs of these symptoms over ten days of age, contact your veterinarian immediately.
A third sign to look for in a sick or dying dog is how well it uses its hind limbs. Insects, small wild animals, and bats that bite the dog are the most common. Rabies in dogs is usually caused by being bitten by an infected mammal, but it can also be caused by eating contaminated food or coming into contact with infected saliva of bats. The saliva of bats contains special bacteria that become airborne when they feed on insects. These bacteria then becomes absorbed into the dog’s bloodstream, eventually causing a very severe case of rabies.
The fourth symptom of rabies in dogs that you should watch out for is how well the pet rubs itself against you. If you notice your pet trying to groom itself on you and itches and scratches, it probably has rabies. This symptom is usually seen in older dogs more than once or twice. It is also possible for it to be seen in puppies less than 10 days of life, as well.
Rabies in dogs and cats can cause many complications if not treated quickly. Rabies affects the brain, which is the reason why it is called “the little brain of the cat”. Although cats do not need a rabies vaccination, they should have a yearly shot to prevent them from getting rabies. If you notice any of these signs of rabies in pets, contact your vet as soon as possible. If you see that your pet is exhibiting any of these symptoms, you should contact your local vet to obtain an effective method of treatment.