Why do dogs die from rabies after being bitten? - briefly
Dogs typically die from rabies after being bitten because the virus attacks their central nervous system, leading to paralysis and ultimately, respiratory failure. The incubation period can vary, but once symptoms appear, death usually occurs within days.
Why do dogs die from rabies after being bitten? - in detail
Rabies is a viral disease that affects the nervous system of mammals, including dogs. When a dog is bitten by an infected animal, the virus enters the body through the bite wound and begins to replicate within muscle cells near the site of entry. The virus then spreads to the brain via the peripheral nerves, where it continues to multiply. As the infection progresses, the virus travels along the axons, eventually reaching the brain stem and causing severe inflammation. This neurological damage leads to a range of clinical signs, such as aggression, disorientation, paralysis, and ultimately, death. The incubation period for rabies can vary significantly, ranging from 10 days to several months, depending on the distance the virus has to travel from the bite site to the brain. During this time, the dog may appear normal, but once clinical signs develop, the disease is almost always fatal. Effective vaccination and prompt treatment after a suspected exposure are crucial for preventing rabies in dogs.