Dogs with rabies display the following symptoms.

Rabies is a serious and potentially fatal disease caused by a virus that affects the central nervous system. Dogs are one of the most common carriers of rabies, and it's crucial to be aware of the symptoms and take appropriate precautions if you suspect your pet may be infected.

Visible Signs of Rabies in Dogs

One of the earliest symptoms of rabies in dogs is a change in behavior. An otherwise friendly and docile dog may become aggressive, while a typically aggressive dog may become unusually friendly. Other visible signs include:

- Paralysis of the throat and jaw muscles, which can lead to excessive drooling and difficulty swallowing.

- A change in the tone of the dog's bark.

- Convulsions and muscle twitching.

- Restlessness and anxiety.

- Agitation and irritability.

- Increased sensitivity to light and sound.

- A lack of coordination and difficulty walking.

As the disease progresses, dogs may also exhibit more severe symptoms, such as:

- Hallucinations and disorientation.

- Fear of water, which is a classic symptom often referred to as "hydrophobia."

- frothing at the mouth.

- Bite attempts at objects or invisible targets.

- Seizures and coma.

What to Do if You Suspect Rabies

If you suspect that your dog has rabies, it's essential to take immediate action to protect both your pet and yourself. Here are some steps to follow:

Contact your veterinarian right away. They will examine your dog and may recommend a series of tests to determine if rabies is the cause of the symptoms.

Avoid direct contact with the dog. If the dog is acting aggressively or is showing severe symptoms, do not attempt to handle it. Instead, isolate the dog in a safe and secure area to prevent it from harming anyone else.

Notify local animal control authorities. They can provide guidance on how to handle the situation and may be able to assist with the capture and quarantine of the affected animal.

Preventive Measures

Prevention is the best strategy when it comes to rabies. Here are some measures you can take to protect your dog and reduce the risk of rabies:

Ensure your dog is up to date on its rabies vaccinations. This is the most effective way to prevent rabies in dogs.

Avoid contact with wild animals, especially those that are acting strangely or are known to carry rabies, such as bats, raccoons, and skunks.

If you're bitten by a dog that may have rabies, wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical attention immediately.

Keep your dog under supervision and on a leash when outdoors to prevent exposure to potentially infected animals.

By being aware of the symptoms of rabies and taking appropriate preventive measures, you can help protect your dog and your community from this dangerous disease. Remember, if you suspect your dog may be infected, act quickly and seek professional assistance to ensure the safety of both your pet and those around you.