Rabies in Dogs

Rabies is a fatal viral infection of the dog’s central nervous system, spread by saliva of an infected animal, which includes humans. Rabies is caused by a virus. A dog gets rabies from saliva, usually from the bite of an animal that has the disease. You cannot get rabies from blood.

SOURCE & CAUSE(S) OF RABIES IN DOGS

Rabies occurs on every continent. Most countries are affected, with the exception of a few island countries such as Great Britain, Ireland, Japan, and Hawaii. Norway, Sweden, and the Iberian Peninsula are also free of rabies. In the United States, rabies has been reported in every state except Hawaii.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS OF RABIES IN DOGS

Signs and symptoms can vary widely. You should contact your veterinarian if you observe any of the following, especially if your dog has not had a rabies vaccine.

Bizarre gait
Slobbering
Difficulty swallowing
Depression or excitability
Extreme changes in normal behavior
Convulsions
Unprovoked aggressiveness

DIAGNOSIS & TESTS FOR RABIES IN DOGS

The incubation period can vary from ten days to one year or longer. In dogs, the incubation period is typically two weeks to four months. Diagnosis for rabies is limited to post-mortem lab tests of brain tissue and these should be performed in all cases of suspected rabies.

TREATMENT & MANAGEMENT OF RABIES IN DOGS

Treatment options will depend on the degree of severity at time of diagnosis.

There is no definitive treatment for rabies
Dogs should be quarantined
Euthanasia
Notification of local animal welfare authorities is required

PREVENTION & HELPFUL TIPS FOR RABIES IN DOGS

Vaccinate your dog. The vaccination of dogs against rabies is required by law in almost all places in the U.S., but whether mandated by law or not, responsible dog owners should vaccinate their dogs. The importance of rabies vaccinations in dogs cannot be overemphasized.

If any animal you suspect may have rabies bites you, immediately wash and flush the wound thoroughly with soap and water, and seek medical assistance right away.