What are the symptoms of rabies in a golden retriever?

Rabies is a serious and potentially fatal disease that can affect all mammals, including our beloved golden retrievers. Recognizing the symptoms of rabies in golden retrievers is crucial for the health and safety of both the dog and its human companions.

Visible Symptoms

One of the earliest signs of rabies in golden retrievers is a change in behavior. A normally friendly and social dog may become withdrawn, irritable, or aggressive. As the disease progresses, you might notice excessive salivation, difficulty swallowing, and a cough. The dog's bark may also change, becoming hoarse or weak.

Physical symptoms can include paralysis, often starting in the hind legs and spreading to other parts of the body. This paralysis can lead to an uncoordinated gait or the inability to walk. Some golden retrievers may experience seizures or muscle twitching.

Behavioral Changes

Rabies can cause significant changes in a golden retriever's behavior. Dogs may become overly anxious or demonstrate signs of confusion. They might also engage in odd or repetitive behaviors, like chewing on inanimate objects or chasing their own tail. In some cases, a golden retriever with rabies may show a lack of fear of people or other animals, which is highly unusual for this typically cautious breed.

Another behavioral symptom is hydrophobia, or a fear of water. This occurs because the dog has difficulty swallowing, and the thought of trying to drink can cause panic.

Later Stages

As rabies progresses, golden retrievers may enter the “furious” stage, where they become extremely aggressive and may attack without provocation. This stage is particularly dangerous for humans and other animals. During this time, the dog may also have hallucinations and exhibit erratic behavior.

Eventually, the disease will lead to a coma and death. This usually happens within a few days after the onset of symptoms.

What to Do

If you suspect your golden retriever has rabies, it is essential to take immediate action. Do not attempt to handle the dog without protection, as it may bite. Instead, isolate the dog in a safe and secure area away from other animals and people.

Contact your veterinarian or local animal control immediately. They will provide guidance on how to handle the situation safely and what steps to take next. If the dog has been vaccinated against rabies, the vet may recommend a booster shot. If the dog has not been vaccinated, it will likely need to be quarantined for a period of time.

Prevention is Key

The best way to protect your golden retriever from rabies is through vaccination. Make sure your dog receives the rabies vaccine according to your vet's recommended schedule. Keep in mind that even vaccinated dogs can contract rabies if exposed to an infected animal, but the vaccine significantly reduces the risk.

It's also important to keep your golden retriever away from wild animals that may carry the disease, such as raccoons, bats, and skunks. If you live in an area where rabies is common, consider keeping your dog indoors or in a fenced yard.

By being vigilant and taking these precautions, you can help ensure your golden retriever stays healthy and safe from the threat of rabies.