Duration of Rabies in Dogs & Symptoms: Quick Guide

Section 1: The Dangers of Rabies

Rabies in dogs is a fatal disease that typically claims their lives within three to five days. Once a dog contracts rabies and shows symptoms, the mortality rate is a grim 100%. Approximately 80% of infected dogs will succumb to the disease within 3 to 5 days, with very few surviving beyond ten to fifteen days. If your own dog falls ill with rabies, it is generally incurable. While there are anecdotal reports of cured cases, the risks to humans are too great, and the risk of being bitten must be constantly guarded against. Rabies is a terminal illness for both humans and dogs, and once infected and symptoms manifest, there is no hope for recovery. Therefore, it is crucial to receive the rabies vaccine promptly after being bitten, as the incubation period is lengthy and often goes unnoticed.

Section 2: Symptoms of Rabid Dogs

1. Changed Behavior

After being affected by rabies, dogs may become dull in their reactions, reluctant to interact with humans, and exhibit signs of fear. Upon being stimulated, they may bark excessively or even bite out of frenzy. After a period of calming down, their fatigue may subside, but their energy can return to normal after some time.

2. Abnormal Appetite

Following the onset of rabies, dogs may experience a loss of appetite, even for their favorite treats. They may develop an unusual habit of eating grass or gnawing on wood. Swallowing becomes difficult, and saliva may continuously leak from their mouths, sometimes even leading to selfmutilation.

3. Fear of Water and Light

Dogs with rabies are extremely afraid of water and light. They may even cower in fear when offered a drink, and they dislike light, preferring to hide in darker places. These symptoms indicate that the dog has entered the late stages of rabies.

4. Paralytic Death

When a dog shows signs of paralysis, it signifies that it is nearing death. The paralysis is characterized by the inability to control bodily movements, including the muscles, leading to difficulty in swallowing, excessive saliva, and even difficulty standing. Ultimately, death occurs due to respiratory paralysis.

Pet Doctor's Tip: For more information on rabies in dogs, you can read our article "What Are the Symptoms of Rabies?"