Fact Sheets On Rabies  

Rabies is most commonly found in a variety of mammals including raccoons, foxes, bats and skunks. However, rabies continues to be a serious health concern among domestic animals like cows, dogs and cats. The virus is present in the saliva of an infected animal and it is transmitted through infected salivary secretions. Transmission usually occurs when the dog receives a bite from a rabid animal.

Rabies virus causes inflammation of the brain, a condition known as encephalitis. Inflammation due to rabies infection can also occur in the spinal cord, which is known as myelitis.

The most predominant symptom is irritable behavior. However, this symptom in dogs can also occur due to improper digestion. There are three different phases in the progression of a rabies infection in dogs. During the initial prodormal phase, one can observe behavioral changes such as loss of appetite, change in barking tone of the dog, irritation and aversion to drinking water. During the furious phase, the animal tries to viciously attack any moving object. The dog constantly growls and barks, has dilated pupils, disorientation, and restlessness, loss of muscular control, seizures and erratic behavior. In the final paralytic phase, the animal succumbs to the infection due to paralysis that starts from the lower jaw and gradually spreads to other parts of the body. The animal enters a state of coma and dies.

The most rapid and reliable diagnostic test for rabies is direct fluorescent antibody test or dFA performed using infected brain tissue. However, there are various other diagnostic tests for detecting rabies infection. Serum, spinal fluid and saliva are used for examination in these tests.

Vaccination is the only way by which dogs can be protected from contracting rabies. It is important to have the dog vaccinated with rabies vaccine from an experienced veterinarian. It is important to keep the surroundings clean and devoid of any stray animals.