Myths About Rabies
Rabies is a viral infection that is easily preventable but almost always fatal if not treated. It is spread by infected bodily fluids, usually through a bite from an infected animal. Throughout history, many myths have been perpetuated about the disease.
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Foaming At The Mouth Means Rabies
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While foaming at the mouth is a sign of rabies, it's also a symptom of many other issues, including distemper, ticks, diabetes, liver failure, allergies and dehydration. All of those are more common, so be sure to ask a vet before assuming your animal has rabies.
You Can Only Get Rabies From Bites
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If you're bitten by an animal who could be carrying rabies, definitely see a doctor. However, you should also see a doctor if you're scratched or if you've come in contact with saliva or other bodily fluids from an animal that might have rabies.
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Rabies Is Always Fatal
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Yes, rabies is fatal if not treated quickly. However, if it's treated with vaccinations within 24 to 48 hours, rabies is rarely fatal to humans or animals. Immediate cleansing with soap and hot water will help with the healing and treatment. Many people who are bitten won't even develop rabies, although you should still seek treatment.
Rabies Shots Are Extremely Painful
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Although the treatment for rabies was once extremely painful because it involved shots in the abdomen with a large needle, the procedure has gotten better and now involves injections into the wound site.
Rabid Dogs Fear Water
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Humans have a hard time swallowing when infected with rabies. However, dogs do not have this problem and can still drink plenty of water, which means they will not show any signs of fear toward water.
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- Photo Credit This dog may or may not have rabies. Photo by chefjancris/Flickr.com
