Why does a dog die from rabies? - briefly
Rabies is caused by a virus that attacks the nervous system of dogs. Once symptoms appear, it is almost always fatal as there is no cure.
Why does a dog die from rabies? - in detail
Rabies, caused by the rabies virus (RABV), is an acute viral encephalitis that results in the death of nearly all infected mammals, including dogs. The virus primarily affects the nervous system, leading to progressive and fatal neurological symptoms. Once clinical signs appear, the disease is almost always fatal, with a case fatality rate approaching 100%.
The rabies virus enters the body through a bite or scratch from an infected animal. It then travels along the nerves towards the brain, where it replicates and causes inflammation and damage to neural tissue. The incubation period can vary greatly depending on factors such as the distance of the wound from the brain and the viral load. During this time, the virus remains undetected by the immune system.
As the virus reaches the brain, it begins to affect neurons, leading to behavioral changes, agitation, and paralysis. The initial symptoms in dogs may include lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, and unusual behavior such as restlessness or aggression. As the disease progresses, more severe neurological signs appear, including seizures, paralysis, excessive drooling (hydrophobia), and eventually coma and death.
The immune response plays a crucial role in determining the outcome of rabies infection. While the virus can be neutralized by antibodies before it reaches the brain, once it has entered the central nervous system, it is highly resistant to immune responses. The lack of effective treatment options for clinical rabies underscores the importance of preventive measures such as vaccination and prompt wound care after potential exposure.
The high fatality rate in dogs infected with rabies highlights the necessity of timely intervention. If a dog is suspected of being exposed to the virus, immediate veterinary attention is essential. Early post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) can be administered, which involves cleaning the wound and administering rabies vaccine and, in some cases, rabies immune globulin. This proactive approach can prevent the onset of clinical symptoms and ultimately save the dog's life.
In summary, a dog dies from rabies due to the severe neurological damage caused by the rabies virus once it reaches the brain. The progressive nature of the disease and its high resistance to immune responses make timely intervention and preventive measures crucial in controlling and preventing rabies-related fatalities.