What are the symptoms of a rabid dog? - briefly
The primary symptoms of a rabid dog include excessive drooling or foam at the mouth, behavioral changes such as aggression or lethargy, and difficulty swallowing. Additionally, rabid dogs may exhibit paralysis, especially in the hind limbs.
What are the symptoms of a rabid dog? - in detail
Rabies in dogs is a serious and often fatal disease caused by the rabies virus, which affects the brain and nervous system. Recognizing the symptoms of rabies in dogs is crucial for prompt diagnosis and treatment. The primary symptoms of rabies in dogs can be categorized into three stages: prodromal, furious, and paralytic (or dumb).
In the prodromal stage, the initial symptoms are often subtle and may go unnoticed. These include a change in behavior, such as increased irritability or aggression, as well as lethargy and loss of appetite. Dogs may also exhibit signs of discomfort, including restlessness and an unusual sensitivity to touch, light, or sound. Additionally, there might be a slight fever and excessive salivation, which is often mistaken for drooling.
As the disease progresses into the furious stage, the symptoms become more pronounced and alarming. Dogs may exhibit abnormal behavior such as aggression, biting, and attacking other animals or humans without provocation. They might also display erratic movements, including circling, pacing, and seizures. The increased salivation from the prodromal stage worsens, leading to a characteristic frothy appearance due to difficulty swallowing. This stage is particularly dangerous as it increases the risk of transmission through bites.
In the paralytic (or dumb) stage, the symptoms shift towards paralysis and muscle weakness. Dogs may have difficulty moving their hind limbs, which can progress to full-body paralysis. They might also experience difficulty swallowing, leading to a characteristic "dropped jaw" appearance as they cannot close their mouth properly. Respiratory distress is common at this stage due to the paralysis of the respiratory muscles. Death typically occurs within 7 to 10 days after the onset of symptoms, usually from respiratory failure or cardiac arrest.
It's essential to note that rabies in dogs can present in different forms and not all dogs will exhibit all these symptoms. Some may display only a few or very mild symptoms initially, making diagnosis challenging. If you suspect your dog has rabies, it is vital to seek immediate veterinary care and follow local regulations regarding the handling and reporting of suspected rabid animals. Prevention through regular vaccinations is the best way to protect dogs from this deadly disease.