Rabies in Dogs
Rabies is a life-threatening virus that affects mammals. It can be present in animals whether or not they are alive. The most common method of transmission is through the bite of an infected animal. This is because rabies is spread through saliva.
This virus spreads through the nervous system of the infected animal until it reaches the brain. Rabies becomes fatal once it reaches the brain.
Some of the symptoms of rabies that will typically appear include:
- Behavioral changes (aggression, depression, unprovoked attacks)
- Loss of appetite or difficulty eating or drinking
- Overreacting to touch, sound, or light
- Staggering or falling with eventual paralysis
- Excessive drooling
- Biting or licking the wound site where the exposure occurred
When do the symptoms of rabies appear?
While the rabies virus commonly presents its symptoms within two weeks, there have been cases of the symptoms not appearing for months. This makes vaccinations all the more important, as well as ensuring that you notify your local health unit and your vet and follow any instructions that you are provided regarding your animal.
An infected animal can begin transmitting the virus to other animals around 10 days before symptoms appear. The animal typically dies approximately a week to 10 days after the symptoms appear.
Do rabies vaccinations prevent rabies in dogs?
While the rabies vaccine is incredibly effective and provides protection your pet would otherwise not have, no vaccine is 100% effective. It is safer for your pet to have the vaccine than living without it, as the rabies virus is fairly common.
In Fayetteville, any dog exposed to the rabies virus and having received their rabies vaccinations will receive a booster shot immediately. They will also require a 30-day quarantine effective immediately, and they will be unable to interact with other animals for a further 60 days after the initial 30-day period.
You must follow the regulations in your area, as these regulations vary between locations. If your vaccinated dog has been in contact with the rabies virus, you should reach out to the health unit in Fayetteville.
Can a vaccinated dog still get rabies?
If your dog is up to date with their rabies vaccine then it is unlikely that they will be able to transmit the rabies virus. Even so, it is not impossible. Regardless of vaccination status, any dog that has bitten a person must be quarantined for 10 days. If the dog or cat was infectious at the time of the bite, any symptoms of the virus within the animal will appear within 10 days.
Can you get rabies from a dog that has been vaccinated?
While it is unlikely to get rabies from a vaccinated dog, there is still a slight risk. Both vaccinated and unvaccinated pets that bite a person must be quarantined for 10 days.
Vaccinations for Rabies Protection
The best and easiest form of rabies prevention is to keep their vaccinations current. This goes for all types of pets.
Your vet can recommend a specific schedule for your puppy or kitten to receive vaccinations or booster shots. Depending on whether you have a dog or cat, pet vaccinations will be administered at different intervals. At Fayette Veterinary Medical Center, cats and dogs both receive rabies vaccinations at around 14 to 16 weeks.
Keeping your dog on a leash during walks and indoors during the nighttime, when wild animals are more active, will protect them from rabies. In Fayetteville, there is a good chance that bats may be rabid. Be sure to bat-proof your home and avoid contact with bats.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.