How do dogs get rabies?
Rabies is a fatal infectious disease caused by the rabies virus and is primarily spread through bites or scratches from infected animals. Dogs, as one of mankind's most intimate pets, are also one of the main spreaders of rabies. Understanding how dog rabies is transmitted and how to prevent it are critical to protecting the health of humans and pets. The following is a detailed analysis of dog rabies.
1. Transmission routes of rabies

Rabies virus is mainly spread through the saliva of infected animals. Common ways of transmission include:
| Communication method | Detailed description |
|---|---|
| bite | Bites from rabies-infected dogs are the main route of transmission, with the virus entering the wound through saliva. |
| scratch | Scratches can also lead to the spread of the virus if your dog's paws are stained with saliva. |
| mucosal contact | The virus can enter the body through the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose or mouth. |
2. Causes of rabies infection in dogs
Dogs usually become infected with rabies for the following reasons:
| Reason | Description |
|---|---|
| Being bitten by another infected animal | Dogs are bitten when they come into contact with other wild animals such as foxes, bats, raccoons, etc. |
| not vaccinated | Dogs that are not regularly vaccinated against rabies are more susceptible to the virus. |
| Stray or free-range dogs | Stray or free-range dogs are at higher risk of exposure to virus carriers. |
3. Symptoms of rabies
Dogs infected with rabies usually go through the following stages of symptoms:
| stage | Symptoms |
|---|---|
| incubation period | Usually 2-8 weeks, no obvious symptoms. |
| prodromal stage | Abnormal behavior, such as restlessness, photophobia, and loss of appetite. |
| violent period | Increased aggression, salivation, and difficulty swallowing. |
| paralysis period | He became quadriplegic and eventually died of respiratory failure. |
4. How to prevent dog rabies
The key to preventing rabies is vaccination and avoiding exposure to potential sources of infection:
| Precautions | Specific methods |
|---|---|
| Get vaccinated regularly | Vaccinate dogs against rabies every year to ensure immunity. |
| Avoid contact with wild animals | Prevent dogs from coming into contact with wild animals such as bats and foxes. |
| tethered or kept in captivity | Reduce the chance of dogs straying and reduce the risk of infection. |
| Treat wounds promptly | If bitten or scratched by a dog, wash immediately with soap and water and seek medical attention. |
5. Response measures to human rabies infection
If you are accidentally bitten or scratched by a dog suspected of being infected with rabies, you should take the following emergency measures:
| steps | Operation |
|---|---|
| Clean the wound | Wash the wound with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes. |
| Disinfection | Use iodophor or alcohol to disinfect the wound. |
| Seek medical advice | Go to the hospital as soon as possible to receive rabies vaccine and immune globulin. |
| Watch your dog’s health | If the dog does not become ill within 10 days, the risk of infection can be reduced. |
6. Summary
Rabies is a deadly infectious disease, but it can be effectively controlled through scientific preventive measures. Dog owners should regularly vaccinate their pets, avoid contact between dogs and wild animals, and promptly treat wounds after being bitten. Only by doing these protective tasks well can the health and safety of people and pets be ensured.
Through the above content, we have a detailed understanding of the transmission routes, symptoms and prevention methods of dog rabies. I hope this article helps you better protect your own health and the health of your dog.
check the details
check the details