How do I know my dog has rabies?
Rabies is a viral infection of the nervous system. The disease is reported in different wild and domestic animal species, but most cases of rabies in South Africa involve domestic dogs.
While medical experts have noted an increase in human rabies cases in the country, pet owners are urged to look out for signs and symptoms of the virus in their dogs.
The National Institute for Communicable Diseases said dogs that were not fully vaccinated for rabies were susceptible to infection.
Here is what you need to know about rabies in dogs:
What is rabies?
Rabies is a viral infection of the nervous system. The disease is reported in different wild and domestic animal species, but most cases of rabies in South Africa involve domestic dogs.
Human rabies cases are rare in South Africa but cases are still confirmed annually.
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How can my dog get rabies?
Rabies is secreted in saliva and most often passed through a bite wound from an infected animal.
When a bite breaks the skin, the virus can enter the bloodstream.
It can also pass through an open wound that is exposed to the saliva of an infected animal, usually by licking.
While it can pass between pets, rabies in dogs most frequently comes from exposure to wild animals like bats, raccoons, and foxes.
How do I know my dog might have rabies?
Your dog’s behaviour, after they have been bitten by a rabid animal, should be the first thing you look at.
Call a vet immediately if you have reason to suspect rabies.
Your dog may become restless and irritable, even showing aggression.
Physical signs of rabies in dogs include fever, difficulty swallowing, excessive drooling, staggering, seizures, and even paralysis.
If the virus progresses, your dog may be sensitive to lights, movement, and sound.
They may seek out a dark, quiet place to hide or act aggressively.
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