Rabies

Rabies

Species: Dog

Breeds Affected: All Breeds

Rabies is a fatal viral infection of the central nervous system, affecting the brain and spinal cord. It is transmitted via bites or saliva from infected animals and is nearly 100% fatal once clinical signs appear.

• Early signs include behavior changes (anxiety or aggression) and hypersensitivity
• followed by progressive paralysis (e.g. dropped jaw
• inability to swallow)
• drooling/foaming at the mouth
• seizures
• and coma.

There is no cure once symptoms have developed – rabies is invariably fatal in symptomatic animals. Treatment is limited to supportive care, so prevention through vaccination is critical (rabies vaccination is required by law in many areas).

No medications can treat rabies after symptoms begin. Post-exposure prophylaxis (rabies immunoglobulin and vaccine) exists for humans, but in dogs the focus is on vaccination to prevent infection, as no antiviral therapy is available once the disease is present.

• Columbus Veterinary Reviews , Columbus
• The Veterinary Relief Company , Columbus
• James Herriot Memorial Veterinary Hospital , Columbus
• German Village Veterinary Hospital , Columbus
• East Columbus Veterinary Hospital , Columbus