What is Rabies?
Rabies is a deadly viral disease that affects the central nervous system of mammals, including dogs, cats, livestock, wildlife, and even humans. The virus spreads primarily through the bite or deep scratch of an infected animal, as it is carried in saliva. Once the virus enters the body, it travels along the nerves to the brain, leading to severe neurological damage.
Rabies is endemic in many regions, making awareness and prevention essential for every pet owner.
How Does Rabies Spread?
Dogs usually contract rabies through:
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Bites from infected animals such as stray dogs, bats, foxes, or raccoons
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Contact of saliva from an infected animal with open wounds
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Rarely through scratches contaminated with infected saliva
Rabies cannot spread through casual contact, petting, or sharing the same environment.
Signs & Symptoms of Rabies in Dogs
Rabies progresses in stages, and symptoms can vary from subtle to extremely aggressive. Common signs include:
1. Behavioral Changes
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Unusual aggression
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Restlessness or anxiety
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Sudden fearfulness
2. Hydrophobia (Fear of Water)
Infected dogs may avoid drinking water due to difficulty swallowing, often misinterpreted as “fear of water.”
3. Enhanced Sensitivity
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Overreaction to sound, light, or touch
4. Neurological Symptoms
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Drooling or foaming at the mouth
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Difficulty swallowing
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Paralysis of the jaw or legs
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Seizures
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Disorientation
5. Final Stage
Once paralysis begins, the dog’s condition deteriorates rapidly, leading to coma and death.
Why Rabies Is So Dangerous
Rabies is almost always fatal** once clinical symptoms appear.
There is no cure, and death usually occurs within days.
This is why vaccination and prevention are non-negotiable.
Precautions Every Pet Owner Should Take
1. Keep Your Dog Vaccinated
This is the most effective way to protect your dog and your family.
2. Check for Bite Wounds Regularly
If your dog gets into a fight or comes home with a wound, visit your vet immediately.
3. Keep Your Environment Clean
Avoid keeping food waste outside; it can attract wildlife or stray animals.
4. Report Suspicious Animals
If you notice an animal showing abnormal behavior, alert local authorities or animal control.
Rabies Vaccination for Dogs: What You Need to Know
Rabies vaccination is required by law in many regions and is part of every responsible pet care plan.
✔ First Dose: At 3 months of age
✔ Booster: 1 year after the first shot
✔ Follow-Up Boosters: Every 1–3 years, depending on vaccine type and local rules
Vaccination protects not only your dog but also:
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Your family
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Other pets
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The community
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Wildlife
At Paws & Tails, we ensure that every pet is vaccinated following international veterinary guidelines.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Bitten by a Suspected Rabid Animal
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Do NOT touch the wound with bare hands.
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Wash the wound immediately with soap and running water for at least 10 minutes.
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Visit Paws & Tails or your nearest veterinarian immediately.
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Provide all details about the biting animal if possible.
Early intervention can be life-saving.
Visit Us For Necessery Treatment & Suggestion
Rabies in dogs is an important zoonotic disease. Post - bite vaccination in dogs after an exposure may not be sufficient to prevent the disease. Rather the exposed dog may need ready-made anti- rabies Immunoglobulin according to the category of dog bite. We , in Paws and Tails, keep sufficient stock of anti- rabies Immunoglobulin ready , to fight against this fatal disease and to save the furry babies,and to be sold with valid bills, only as per advice of the registered veterinary practitioner.
Final Thoughts
Rabies is a serious but 100% preventable disease. By vaccinating your pets, staying alert to symptoms, and following proper precautions, you can help eliminate this deadly virus from our communities. At Paws & Tails, we are committed to ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of every pet that walks through our doors.
If your dog is due for a rabies vaccine or you have concerns about a bite incident, our team is here to help—because their safety is our promise.
Helpline
Stay responsible. Stay informed. Keep your pets protected.We have now launched a dedicated helpline number to assist with urgent cases, medical queries, and rescue-related concerns.
This helpline is available for anyone seeking support for injured, sick, or distressed animals.
+91-7003440878