Identifying Canine Rabies Virus: Key Signs & Tests

Section 1: How to Identify if a Dog Has Rabies

Rabies in dogs is typically transmitted through the entry of the virus into the body via a bite wound or mucous membranes. The primary mode of transmission is through bites, with scratches being less common. Therefore, pets that have not been bitten or scratched by an infected animal are not at risk of contracting rabies. In cities where rabies has not been reported for a long time, as long as pet owners manage their animals responsibly, the risk of transmission is generally low.

Rabies is more prevalent in rural or small town areas, particularly in southern provinces and regions. The transmission of rabies by dogs is primarily through bites, with minor scratches that do not bleed or superficial scratches being treated with a 2.5% iodine solution. In cases of severe abrasions with bleeding, immediate washing and a visit to the hospital are recommended.

Healthy dogs do not carry the rabies virus. Animals with rabies, besides visible changes such as dull hair and a dirty appearance, drooling, and behavioral abnormalities like a previously docile dog becoming aggressive or a clingy dog becoming distant, are easily observable. Before coming into contact with animals diagnosed or suspected of having rabies, it is necessary to cause skin and mucous membrane damage through scratching or licking.

Merely petting a cat with rabies or coming into contact with the blood, urine, or feces of an infected cat or dog without any wounds does not necessitate a rabies vaccine. To date, there is no evidence to suggest that rabies can be transmitted through contact with contaminated animal saliva or through consuming contaminated food or water. Rabies cannot be spread through the air, even in close contact between owners and dogs or stray dogs with rabies.

Section 2: The Likelihood of a Dog Having Rabies

1. Many cities now require dogs to be vaccinated against rabies, which reduces the likelihood of infection.

2. Dogs with a clear origin and kept in homes, not stray animals, have a lower risk of infection.

3. Dogs that have never come into contact with suspected rabies cases or been bitten by unknown dogs.

4. Dogs without signs of illness or unusual behavior, and who were bitten under circumstances that suggest it was not accidental, such as being pulled, teased, or injured while tending to an animal or protecting their offspring.

5. The disease control center has reported that there has been no rabies in the area in recent years.

Generally, dogs that meet these criteria have a low likelihood of infection due to the effectiveness of vaccinations and the rarity of bites. If a dog shows symptoms, it is advisable to take it to a veterinarian to rule out other diseases. However, if a dog is indeed infected with rabies, it must be quarantined, and if necessary, the owner may opt for humane euthanasia to relieve the dog's suffering.

Dr. Oxygen Pet suggests that it is best to regularly vaccinate your dog to reduce the risk of infection.

Tip: For more information on rabies in dogs, click How to Prevent Rabies Virus to read more.