How Dog Get Rabies

rabies dog teeth scratch

Rabies, a terrifying and almost always fatal viral disease, primarily affects mammals, including our beloved canine companions. Understanding how dogs contract rabies is crucial for prevention and responsible pet ownership.

The primary mode of transmission for rabies is through the saliva of an infected animal. This usually occurs via a bite. When a rabid animal bites a dog, the virus enters the dog’s body through the wound. Less frequently, rabies can be transmitted if the infected saliva comes into contact with a fresh wound, scratch, or mucous membranes (such as the eyes, nose, or mouth). However, intact skin acts as a barrier against the virus.

The animals most commonly responsible for transmitting rabies to dogs vary depending on the geographical location. In North America, common carriers include:

Raccoons: These adaptable creatures are frequent carriers of the virus, especially in urban and suburban areas.
Skunks: Known for their defensive spray, skunks are also reservoirs for rabies.
Bats: Bats are a significant source of rabies globally. Their bites can be small and easily overlooked, making exposure difficult to detect.
Foxes: Found in both rural and urban settings, foxes can transmit rabies to dogs, especially during territorial disputes or when scavenging for food.
Other dogs and cats: While less common, dogs can also transmit rabies to each other or to cats if they are infected.

After entering the body, the rabies virus travels along the nerves to the spinal cord and brain. This incubation period can vary from weeks to months, depending on factors such as the location of the bite, the amount of virus introduced, and the dog’s immune system. During this period, the dog may show no visible signs of illness.

Once the virus reaches the brain, it causes inflammation and severe neurological symptoms. These symptoms can manifest in two primary forms: furious rabies and paralytic rabies. Dogs with furious rabies may exhibit aggression, restlessness, excessive drooling, and an abnormal sensitivity to light, sound, and touch. They may become irritable and prone to biting at anything that moves. Paralytic rabies, also known as “dumb rabies,” is characterized by weakness, incoordination, and paralysis, often starting in the hind limbs. In both forms, dogs will eventually experience difficulty swallowing, leading to excessive drooling and a characteristic “foaming at the mouth.”

Ultimately, rabies is a deadly disease. Once symptoms appear, there is no cure, and the dog will succumb to the illness. Euthanasia is the recommended and humane course of action to prevent further suffering and the potential spread of the virus.

The most effective way to protect your dog from rabies is through vaccination. Rabies vaccines are highly effective and are often required by law. Regular booster shots are essential to maintain immunity. Additionally, preventing your dog from roaming freely and interacting with wildlife can significantly reduce the risk of exposure. If you suspect your dog has been bitten by a potentially rabid animal, seek veterinary attention immediately.