Rabies is a disease caused by viruses that is fatal for dogs, other animals and humans. Fortunately, cases of rabies in Germany and neighboring countries are now relatively low, but dog owners should always take precautions against rabies infection and have their dog vaccinated regularly. But how is rabies actually transmitted and how does this disease manifest itself in dogs?
Rabies is transmitted through saliva
The rabies viruses generally enter the dog’s body through the saliva of an already infected animal through a bite. Rabies is usually transmitted by foxes and bats, but dogs can also become infected through the bite of another animal that carries the rabies virus. For example, rabies is still very widespread in the countries of South America, Asia and Africa and animals imported illegally from these countries can sometimes spread the rabies virus. In addition, the dog can also become infected with the rabies virus while on holiday abroad.
How can rabies be detected?
The rabies disease is basically divided into three different stages, although the transitions between them are often smooth. In the first stage of rabies, a dog becomes very affectionate and constantly seeks contact with its owner, other people and other dogs. In the second stage, the infected animal shows changed behavior and becomes noticeably more aggressive. A dog’s bite combined with excessive salivation is a clear sign of this stage of rabies. In the third and final stage of rabies, the infected dog develops symptoms of paralysis, which at some point also affect breathing and the animal dies within a very short time from complete respiratory paralysis.
How can rabies be treated?
To date, there are no effective treatments for rabies for humans, dogs and other pets and therefore this disease is usually fatal for humans and animals. The only way to protect the dog from rabies is to vaccinate against the rabies virus, which provides immunity against the pathogen. However, the rabies vaccination must be repeated at regular intervals so that it remains effective and the dog is permanently immune to the rabies virus.
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