Rabies

Facts

 Rabies is a severe and often fatal viral polio encephalitis that affects the gray matter of the brain and Central Nervous System (CNS)

 The virus takes up to a month to develop but once the symptoms have begun it progresses rapidly

It is spread through the bite of a disease carrier via saliva

It can be transmitted to people

The Two Forms of Rabies

 Both begin with the prodromal stage - mild signs of abnormalities in the CNS - lasts for 1-3 days

The animal will normally progress to the Furious Stage, then the Paralytic Stage, and then pass away

Furious Rabies is characterized by extreme behavioral changes including overt aggression and attack behaviors

Paralytic Rabies is characterized by weakness and loss of coordination followed by paralysis

Possible Symptoms

Pica - abnormal appetite or cravings

Fever

Seizures

Paralysis

Hydrophobia

Jaw is dropped

Inability to swallow

Change in tone of bark

Muscular lack of coordination

Unusual shyness or aggression

Excessive excitability

Constant irritability

Changes in attitude or behavior

Paralysis of the mandible or larynx

Hyper salivation or frothy saliva

Steps to take after possible exposure

 The only acceptable method for confirming a suspected rabies infection is keeping the pet quarantined in a locked cage for 10 days

The only definitive diagnosis can only be done post-mortem

 Anyone who came in contact with the pet's saliva or was bitten should contact a physician

Do not allow contact with saliva

 If a diagnosis is confirmed, you must report it to your local health department

 Disinfect any area the animal may have infected

Rabies is always fatal for unvaccinated animals - usually withins 7-10 days of the initial symptoms

VACCINATE TO PROTECT!!!!!