What is the rabies virus?
Rabies is a very serious and fatal virus that spreads through contact with the saliva, brain, or spinal tissue of an infected animal. The most common method of transmission is through a bite from an infected animal.
What are the common symptoms of rabies?
The rabies virus becomes fatal after it reaches the brain through the nervous system. Some common symptoms of rabies include:
- Barking differently
- Loss of appetite or difficulty eating or drinking
- Biting or licking the wound where the exposure happened
- Overreacting to sound, light, or touch
- Excessive drooling
- Seizures
- Staggering or falling with eventual paralysis
- Behavioral changes, such as depression, aggression, unprovoked attacks, or even uncharacteristic affection
Once signs of rabies appear, the infected animal typically dies between seven and ten days later.
How long does it take for symptoms to appear?
It may take anywhere from two weeks to four months for symptoms to appear after your dog has been infected with rabies. This potentially long incubation period is one reason it's imperative to vaccinate your pet against rabies, notify your local health unit and your vet if your pet has been bitten by another animal, and follow any instructions from either regarding your dog's health. Animals can also transmit the virus even before the onset of symptoms.
What is the incubation period of rabies?
In most cases, your dog will display signs of the disease within two weeks of exposure, but it is possible for symptoms can appear months later and sometimes even up to a year later. This is why it's imperative to vaccinate your dog and carefully follow any advice provided by your local public health unit if you suspect your dog has been exposed.
Does the rabies vaccine prevent rabies in dogs?
Almost every pet parent wants to be attentive to their pet's health and diligent about keeping up with exams and vaccinations. That said, you may be curious and wonder, 'Can dogs get rabies after they've had their vaccination?'
Unfortunately, the rabies vaccine is not 100% effective. However, this does not mean the shot does not provide protection. The rabies vaccine is so effective that dogs who have been vaccinated rarely become infected, even when bitten by a rabid animal. It's safer for your pet to have the vaccine than to live without it.
Any dog in Lebanon exposed to the rabies virus and vaccinated will receive a booster shot immediately. They will also need a 30-day quarantine, effective immediately, and cannot interact with other animals for a further 60 days after the initial 30-day quarantine period.
Can you get rabies from a dog that has been vaccinated?
The likelihood of a vaccinated dog transmitting rabies to a person is very low, but still possible. It's important to note that regardless of vaccination status, any dog that has bitten a person must be quarantined for ten days.
How can I prevent my dog from contracting rabies?
The best and most accessible form of rabies prevention is keeping your dog's vaccinations current. Maintain a schedule of regular wellness checkups with your vet and notify them about any behavioral or other concerning changes in your pup.
Being mindful and not allowing your dog to wander off is another way you can help to ensure your pet's safety, especially at night when bats and other wildlife are most active. This is because there is a good chance that bats may be rabid.
If your dog has been bitten, you should immediately and thoroughly cleanse the wound and contact the appropriate authorities, and your vet.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding people or pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.