Rabies in Dogs Signs - Creature Companion

 Rabies is a viral infection that affects the nervous system. It mainly affects carnivores (bats) but can affect other mammals as well. Rabies virus is responsible for this. It causes acute and progressive inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. It is fatal once clinical signs are present. Although rabies can be found in many countries around the world, only a few countries have been declared rabies free through successful eradication programs. Rabies is rarely a problem on islands that have strict quarantine programs. Although rabies from domestic dogs is virtually eliminated in North America and Europe, it can still be transmitted to wildlife such as foxes and raccoons.

The most common way the virus is transmitted is by biting an infected animal. It can remain in the body for several weeks before symptoms appear. Most cases in dogs are diagnosed within 21 to 80 days. However, the incubation time can be significantly shorter or longer.

Dog with Rabies Signs and Diagnosis

Disturbances of the central nervous system are a common symptom in rabid animals. The best indicators of central nervous system disturbance are sudden, severe behavioral changes and unexplained paralysis. These symptoms may get worse over time. Behavioral changes include signs of sudden loss of appetite, nervousness, anxiety, over-excitability and apprehension. An animal may seek solitude or befriend a hostile animal. Wild animals can become aggressive and lose their fear of humans. You can also spot animals that usually roam the streets in broad daylight.

Although it can be seen in all species, the furious form is known as "crazy dog ​​syndrome". The animal may be irritable and may use its teeth and claws aggressively or cruelly at the slightest provocation. The dilation of the pupil keeps the animal alert and anxious. Attacks can be triggered by noise. These animals are less likely to fear other animals and can be aggressive. Young cubs are playful and crave human companionship. They can bite even when domesticated, and then they become vicious within a few hours. Seizures and loss of muscle coordination become more common as the disease progresses. Progressive paralysis can lead to death.

Paralytic rage, also known as "dumb rage", is characterized by paralysis of the muscles of the throat and jaw. This can often be accompanied by excessive salivation and an inability to swallow. Common symptoms include drooping in the lower jaw. These dogs are not ferocious and rarely bite. This form can infect people if they touch a dog's mouth or give it medicine. Paralysis spreads throughout the body and death can occur within a few hours.

Rabies is often difficult to diagnose, especially in areas with low prevalence. It is easy to mistake rabies in its early stages for other diseases or general aggressive tendencies. Laboratory tests should be done to confirm the diagnosis of rabies. The animal must be euthanized and its remains sent to the laboratory for analysis.

Control of Rabies

The World Health Organization (WHO) has strict guidelines for controlling rabies in the dog population. These guidelines include:

• Notification of suspected cases, euthanasia of dogs with clinical symptoms and bites of animals suspected of rabies.
• Quarantine and leash laws to reduce contact between vulnerable dogs
• A mass vaccination program with continuous reinforcement
• Control of stray dogs and euthanasia of unvaccinated stray dogs
• Dog Registration Program.

Rabies vaccination programs are strictly implemented. Animal Collection for Rabies Control recommends vaccination every 3 years, 1 year apart after the initial series of 2 vaccines. Since rabies is often seen in cats, they should also be vaccinated.

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