Is it true that for a rabid dog 100 versts is not a detour? - briefly
The saying "for a mad dog, 100 versts is not a detour" is an old Russian proverb illustrating the relentless and unstoppable nature of rabies in dogs. It emphasizes that once infected with rabies, a dog's aggressive behavior becomes so persistent and intense that no distance can deter it from pursuing its target.
Is it true that for a rabid dog 100 versts is not a detour? - in detail
The notion that a rabid dog would not consider 100 versts (approximately 66 miles) an excessive distance to travel is rooted in folk wisdom and has persisted through generations, often used as a metaphor for relentless pursuit or determination. However, this belief does not align with scientific evidence and the actual behavior of rabid animals.
Rabies is a viral disease that affects the nervous system of mammals, including dogs. Once symptoms appear, the animal's behavior becomes increasingly erratic and aggressive, leading to eventual paralysis and death. The progression of the disease typically spans from 2 to 10 days in dogs, with the average being about a week. During this time, the dog may exhibit unusual restlessness, aggression, and disorientation, but it does not possess the capacity for calculated or prolonged travel over long distances such as 100 versts.
The misconception likely arises from the unpredictable nature of rabid animals and their heightened aggression, which can make them appear more determined and dangerous than they actually are. Furthermore, the spread of rabies in wildlife populations can create the impression that infected animals are traveling great distances to infect other animals. However, this transmission is often a result of encounters during normal territorial behaviors or foraging activities rather than deliberate long-distance journeys specifically to spread the disease.
In conclusion, while the phrase "a rabid dog won't consider 100 versts a detour" carries cultural significance and conveys a sense of unyielding pursuit, it is not supported by scientific evidence regarding the behavior of rabid animals. The progression of rabies in dogs is swift, leading to rapid deterioration and death, which precludes the possibility of sustained, long-distance travel.