How to Watch for Rabies

Wild animals such as raccoons and foxes are the most common source of rabies.

Rabies is a disease that is almost always fatal, so it's important to recognize the signs of rabies. Rabies is caused by a virus that is transmitted by the bite of an infected mammal. The virus is undetectable as it travels along the nerves until it reaches the brain. It can be cured during this stage if post-exposure prophylaxis treatment is administered. Once the virus reaches the brain, the symptoms begin to show, and death usually follows within a few days.

Instructions

1. Observe the animal's behavior. A wild animal might suddenly lose its fear of humans, or an animal normally active at night might be out during the day. A usually friendly pet might suddenly become shy or fearful.

2. Check for excessive drooling or foaming at the lips. Rabid animals lose the ability to swallow, and the excess saliva runs out of the mouth.

3. Check for odd behavior or sudden mood swings. An animal might eat things it normally wouldn't, or be lethargic one moment, and excitable and aggressive the next.

4. Look for paralysis. This is the final stage of the disease. Once paralysis sets in, death follows shortly.

Tips & Warnings

• Vaccinate your pets against rabies, and keep their shots up to date to guard against the disease.

• Never approach an animal behaving strangely or one you suspect to be rabid.

References

• WebMD: Rabies
• HealthCommunities: Rabies Signs & Symptoms