What it is
The rabies virus is carried in the saliva of an infected animal and enters the body through a bite, or when saliva gets into a wound. In Europe the virus is kept going by wild animals, especially foxes and raccoon dogs, and bats carry related viruses. From the wound the virus travels slowly along the nerves to the brain, so anything from a few weeks to a few months can pass between the bite and the first signs.
Once it reaches the brain, the virus inflames it. At first the behaviour changes, then the muscles of the throat and jaw become paralysed, so the dog can no longer swallow its saliva, and in the end the whole body weakens. Rabies is a disease that vets are required to report to the state veterinary service.
Vaccination protects a dog against rabies: your vet can tell you when and how to vaccinate. Don't let your dog chase or touch wild animals, especially ones that behave oddly, seem unafraid of people or are found dead. If your dog has bitten a person, that person needs to see a doctor immediately.
Signs you may notice
- Sudden change in behaviour
- Unexpected aggression
- Drools heavily
- Struggles to swallow, lower jaw hangs open
- Staggers, legs grow weak
The dog's behaviour changes suddenly: a calm dog becomes restless, hides or starts to bite, while a shy one may become unusually clingy. Later it drools heavily, struggles to swallow, its lower jaw hangs open, its bark changes, and it staggers and grows weak. If you see these signs, don't touch the dog with bare hands, and phone a vet right away.
When to see a vet
If your dog has been bitten by a wild or unknown animal, or its behaviour has changed suddenly and it drools or struggles to swallow, phone a vet immediately. While you speak to the vet, keep the dog apart from people and other animals.
This is general information, not veterinary advice. For your own dog's health, tests and treatment, see a vet.