The symptoms of a dog having rabies can manifest as follows

Rabies is a serious viral disease that affects the central nervous system of mammals, including dogs. When a dog contracts rabies, it can exhibit a variety of symptoms that can be both subtle and overt. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial for the safety of both the pet and its human companions.

Early Symptoms: In the early stages of rabies, a dog may show signs of general sickness. This can include a fever, loss of appetite, and a general sense of malaise. The dog might also appear to be more affectionate or restless than usual. These early signs can be easily overlooked, as they are somewhat nonspecific and could be indicative of many different illnesses.

Behavioral Changes: As the virus progresses, a dog may exhibit significant changes in behavior. A normally friendly dog might become aggressive, while a typically aggressive dog might become unusually docile. Dogs may also start to wander off, potentially displaying a lack of recognition of familiar people or places.

Saliva and Drooling: One of the hallmark signs of rabies in dogs is excessive salivation and drooling. This occurs as the virus affects the salivary glands. The dog may also have difficulty swallowing, which can contribute to the drooling.

Paralysis: As rabies advances, a dog may experience paralysis. This often starts in the hind legs and can spread to other parts of the body. The paralysis can lead to an inability to walk or stand, and the dog may eventually become unable to breathe.

Furious Rabies: Some dogs may exhibit what is known as "furious rabies," which is characterized by extreme aggression, hallucinations, and random biting. This phase is particularly dangerous, as the infected dog may attack anything or anyone in its path.

Convulsions and Seizures: In the final stages of rabies, a dog may experience convulsions and seizures. These can be extremely distressing to witness and indicate that the disease is rapidly progressing.

If you suspect that your dog may have rabies, it is critical to take immediate action. Here are some reasonable suggestions to ensure the safety of your pet and those around it:

Contact your veterinarian immediately. They will provide guidance on how to handle the situation safely and may recommend that you isolate the dog to prevent the spread of the virus.

Do not attempt to handle the dog without protection. Wear gloves and use a lead or a slip leash to maintain control of the animal.

Avoid contact with the dog's saliva. Rabies is transmitted through saliva, so it is essential to prevent any exposure.

Keep other pets and people away from the infected dog. Rabies is a zoonotic disease, which means it can be transmitted to humans.

Follow local laws and regulations regarding rabies. Some areas may require mandatory testing or quarantine of animals suspected of having rabies.

Remember, rabies is a fatal disease if not treated promptly. Vaccination is the best way to protect your dog from contracting rabies. Ensure your dog is up to date on its rabies vaccinations and consult with your veterinarian for the appropriate vaccination schedule.

By being vigilant and responsive to the symptoms of rabies, you can help protect your dog and your community from this dangerous virus.