The symptoms of rabies in dogs can include behaviors such as
Rabies in dogs is a serious and often fatal disease caused by a virus that affects the central nervous system. It's crucial for dog owners to be aware of the symptoms and take appropriate precautions to protect their pets and themselves. Recognizing the signs of rabies can be challenging, but there are certain behaviors and symptoms that you should be on the lookout for.
Changes in Behavior
One of the earliest signs of rabies in dogs is a change in behavior. A normally friendly and social dog may become withdrawn, anxious, or aggressive. Conversely, a typically aggressive dog might become overly friendly or docile. These changes can be subtle at first, but they tend to become more pronounced as the disease progresses.
Increased Agitation and Aggression
As rabies progresses, dogs often become increasingly agitated and may display signs of aggression. This can include growling, snarling, and even attacking other animals or humans. The aggression is not always directed outward; some dogs may become self-mutilating, biting at their own limbs or tail.
Paralysis
Another symptom of rabies is paralysis. This can start in the muscles of the face, leading to a drooping lip or an inability to close the eyes. As the disease spreads, the paralysis can move to other parts of the body, eventually affecting the respiratory muscles and leading to death.
Change in Voice