Rabies is a deadly viral disease that can infect all mammals and can even be transferred to humans. If this occurs, the virus can lead to convulsions and insanity, hence the reason why there are so many precautions taken to prevent this disease from infecting any animals in the first place. Unfortunately, rabies is highly contagious. Here are the facts that you need to know, as well as some information on how to protect your animals from falling victim.
How is rabies spread?
Rabies is predominantly spread through salvia, which is why animal bites are treated as so dangerous. Dog bites are taken especially seriously as data suggests that dogs are responsible for 96% of human rabies cases in South-East Asia.
How can you tell if your dog is infected?
The reality is that the rabies virus can lie dormant in an animal’s system for months. However, once the illness is activated, the virus will prove fatal within a week. The symptoms of rabies include:
- Biting for seemingly no reason at all
- Sudden aggression
- Eating strange items from the garden such as sticks, rocks, etc
- Constant running around
- A change in the sound of the dog’s bark or growl
- Salivating or foaming at the mouth
If ever a rabies infection is suspected, it is imperative that you get your dog to a reputable veterinarian, like easyvet Veterinarian Frisco, who will be able to provide a diagnosis. While it is not possible to test for rabies in a live animal, the symptoms are usually rather obvious. In most instances, the vet may conduct various other tests to rule out other possible causes of the symptoms that caused you to bring your dog in for examination.
Is there a cure for rabies?
Unfortunately not. There is no treatment or cure for the rabies virus once the symptoms appear. The key is to take the necessary action in order to prevent your dog from becoming infected at all.
How to protect your dog from rabies
The most promising line of defense against the terrible illness that is rabies is that of vaccination. It is essential to keep your pet’s vaccinations up to date. Puppies are supposed to get their first rabies vaccination at around three months of age. Following that initial vaccination, dogs will need to be vaccinated again within 12 months. From there, your dog will be required to get a rabies booster vaccine every three years.
It is also important to get in touch with your dog’s veterinarian if he or she is bitten by an unknown animal. It is also worthwhile speaking to the veterinarian even if your pet comes into direct contact with the animal, even if there are no visible wounds following the contact. In these instances, the safest course of action would be to administer a rabies booster shot.
Rabies is a serious disease that can have dire consequences for your pet and your family so don’t hesitate – head to your vet to vaccinate!
