06 Nov Rabies in Dogs: Facts, Prevention, and Vaccination Importance

Rabies is one of the most feared diseases among pet owners and for a good reason. This viral disease can affect all mammals, including dogs and humans, and is nearly always fatal once symptoms appear. Learning about rabies, understanding how to prevent it, and recognising the importance of vaccinations can save lives.

What is Rabies in Dogs?

Rabies is a highly dangerous and fatal viral disease that affects the central nervous system (CNS) of mammals, including dogs and humans. It is caused by the Lyssavirus, a virus known for its ability to spread rapidly once it enters the body, ultimately leading to brain and spinal cord inflammation. This disease is zoonotic, meaning it can be transmitted between animals and humans, making it not only a serious threat to your pet but also a significant public health concern.

In dogs, rabies progresses through several stages, starting with mild symptoms that may be easy to overlook, such as fever and behavioural changes, and eventually leading to severe neurological symptoms like aggression, paralysis, and death. The virus most commonly spreads through the saliva of an infected animal, typically via a bite. However, it can also be transmitted through scratches or open wounds exposed to contaminated saliva.

Rabies is found worldwide, but it is most prevalent in regions where dog vaccination programs are limited or non-existent. In many developing countries, it remains a major public health issue due to many stray animals and restricted access to preventive measures.

One of the most concerning aspects of rabies is its nearly 100% fatality rate once symptoms appear. There is no cure for rabies after the onset of symptoms, so prevention through vaccination is essential. Despite its severity, rabies is entirely preventable, and ensuring your dog is vaccinated protects your pet and reduces the risk of transmission to other animals and humans.

Understanding rabies in dogs is critical to recognising the risks and taking the necessary steps to protect your furry friend. By learning how the disease spreads, what symptoms to watch for, and the preventive measures available, you can ensure your pet’s safety and contribute to broader efforts to eliminate rabies worldwide.

How is Rabies Transmitted?

Rabies in dogs is primarily transmitted through:

• Animal Bites: The most common cause occurs when an infected animal bites a dog, introducing the virus through saliva.
• Open Wounds or Scratches: The virus can enter a dog’s body if saliva from a rabid animal contacts open cuts.
• Contact with Wildlife: Wild animals like raccoons, bats, foxes, and skunks are common carriers of rabies, posing a risk to dogs that roam outdoors unsupervised.

Rabies transmission is not limited to rural areas—urban settings with high stray dog populations also experience outbreaks.

Symptoms and Stages

Recognising the symptoms of rabies in dogs can help pet owners take timely action. Also, the disease progresses through distinct stages, with symptoms worsening over time.

Early Symptoms of Rabies in Dogs

• Fever and lethargy
• Increased irritability or anxiety
• Excessive licking or scratching of the bite wound
• Loss of appetite

Excitative or Furious Stage

• Extreme aggression and unprovoked biting
• Disorientation and restlessness
• Hypersensitivity to light, sound, or touch
• Excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth

Paralytic or Dumb Stage

• Muscle weakness or paralysis
• Difficulty swallowing and breathing
• Uncoordinated movements
• Eventual coma

Once these symptoms appear, the disease is almost always fatal.

The Importance of Rabies Vaccination for Dogs

Rabies vaccination is the most effective method to protect dogs from this deadly disease. Here’s why vaccination is crucial:

• Protecting Your Dog’s Health: Vaccination prevents your pet from contracting rabies, even if exposed to the virus.
• Ensuring Public Safety: Rabies can spread to humans, often through bites. Vaccinating dogs helps prevent potential outbreaks.
• Legal Compliance: In many countries, rabies vaccination is mandatory for pets. Proof of vaccination may be required for travel, licensing, or public events involving pets.
• Cost-Effective Prevention: A rabies vaccine costs far less than the financial and emotional toll of dealing with an infected pet or potential human exposure.

Rabies in Dogs: Prevention Tips

Prevention goes beyond vaccination. Follow these tips to minimise your dog’s risk of exposure to rabies:

1. Routine Vaccinations: Keep your dog’s rabies vaccinations up to date. Also, puppies should receive their first rabies shot at 12–16 weeks, with booster doses as your veterinarian recommends.
2. Supervise Outdoor Activities: Avoid letting your dog roam unsupervised, especially in areas with wildlife or stray animals.
3. Control Wildlife Access: Secure your property to prevent contact with wild animals. Also, fences and secure trash bins can help deter wildlife.
4. Educate Yourself: Learn about rabies risks in your area. Areas with high stray populations or wildlife activity require extra caution.
5. Practice Responsible Pet Ownership: Spay or neuter your pets to help reduce stray populations, which can contribute to the spread of rabies.

What to Do if Your Dog is Exposed to Rabies

If you suspect your dog has been bitten or exposed to a rabid animal, act quickly:

1. Contact Your Veterinarian Immediately: Seek professional advice as soon as possible. Also, your vet may recommend quarantine or post-exposure prophylaxis, depending on your dog’s vaccination status.
2. Quarantine Your Dog: Isolate your pet to prevent potential spread to other animals or people.
3. Report the Incident: Notify local animal control or public health authorities. So, this helps track rabies cases and implement control measures.

FAQs About Rabies in Dogs

• What is rabies, and how does it affect dogs?

Rabies is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system of mammals, including dogs. It causes neurological symptoms such as aggression, paralysis, and, eventually, death.

• How is rabies transmitted to dogs?

Rabies is transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, typically via a bite. It can also be spread through scratches or if saliva comes into contact with open wounds.

• What are the symptoms of rabies in dogs?

Symptoms include fever, behavioural changes, excessive drooling, aggression, paralysis, and difficulty swallowing. So, the disease progresses in stages, with symptoms worsening over time.

• Can rabies be cured in dogs?

Unfortunately, rabies cannot be cured once symptoms appear. Prevention through vaccination is the only effective way to protect dogs from the disease.

• Is rabies vaccination mandatory for dogs?

Yes, in many countries, rabies vaccination is legally required for pets. Proof of vaccination may also be necessary for travel or licensing.

• How often does my dog need a rabies vaccine?

Puppies typically receive their first rabies vaccination at 12–16 weeks of age. Booster shots are then given every 1–3 years, depending on the vaccine and local regulations.

• Can an indoor dog get rabies?

Yes, indoor dogs are still at risk. They may be exposed to rabies through contact with wild animals, such as bats, or unvaccinated pets. Vaccination is essential for all dogs.

Final Thought: Protect Your Dog and Community

Rabies in dogs is preventable with responsible care and timely vaccinations. By vaccinating your dog, supervising outdoor activities, and spreading awareness, you can protect your pet and contribute to public health.

Remember: Rabies vaccinations are not just about protecting your dog; they safeguard everyone in your community. If your dog’s vaccination is due, schedule an appointment with your vet today to ensure your pet stays protected.