How does it pass on a dog? - briefly
The transmission of canine parvovirus occurs primarily through contact with infected feces or contaminated environments. Additionally, indirect transmission via fomites, such as shoes and clothing, plays a significant role in spreading the virus among dogs.
How does it pass on a dog? - in detail
How Rabies is Transmitted in Dogs
Rabies is a viral disease that affects mammals, including dogs. The rabies virus is primarily transmitted through the bite of an infected animal. Here's a detailed look at how rabies can pass onto a dog:
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Bite from Infected Animal: The most common way rabies is transmitted to dogs is through a bite from an infected animal. When an infected animal bites a dog, the virus is present in its saliva and can be introduced into the dog's body through the broken skin caused by the bite.
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Saliva Exposure: Even if the bite doesn’t break the skin, exposure to the saliva of an infected animal can still transmit the rabies virus. This can happen if the infected animal's saliva comes into contact with a dog's mucous membranes, such as those in the eyes, nose, or mouth.
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Aerosol Transmission: Although less common, rabies can also be transmitted through the air (aerosol transmission). This typically occurs in environments where there are high concentrations of the virus, such as caves inhabited by infected bats. In these scenarios, the virus can be inhaled and enter the body through the respiratory system.
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Vertical Transmission: While rare, there have been instances where rabies has been transmitted from an infected mother dog to her puppies. This vertical transmission can occur during pregnancy or birth. However, it is important to note that this method of transmission is not well-documented and remains a topic of ongoing research.
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Contaminated Environment: The rabies virus can survive in the environment for some time, particularly in cool and shaded areas. If a dog comes into contact with an object or surface contaminated by the saliva of an infected animal and then licks or bites the area where the virus is present, transmission can occur.
Once the rabies virus enters the body, it travels along the nerves to the brain, where it replicates and causes fatal encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). The incubation period for rabies in dogs can vary significantly, from days to months, depending on factors such as the location and severity of the bite.
Prevention is key when it comes to rabies. Vaccinating your dog against rabies is crucial, as there is no cure once a dog has been infected with the virus. Regular vaccinations and keeping dogs away from potential carriers of the disease are essential steps in protecting canine health.