How to Tell If a Dog Has Rabies: Symptoms to Watch For

How to Tell If a Dog Has Rabies: Symptoms to Watch For

Okay, so picture this. You’re strolling down the street and you see a dog staring at you like it just found out your biggest secret. You try to be all cool and calm, but then you remember… rabies! Cue the panic. Seriously tho, what if that dog is super sick? What do you even look for? Is it gonna start doing the moonwalk or something?

Don’t worry! I got your back. Let’s dive into this wild world of doggie symptoms!

Step 1: Look for the Crazy Eyes
So first off, if a dog’s eyes are looking like they just watched a horror movie marathon, that could be a sign. I mean, we’re talking about big wide googly eyes staring through your soul. Like “I’m coming for ya” kind of vibe. If they look extra wild and not their usual cute self, maybe don’t go petting them.

Step 2: The Drool Factory
Next up, check out how much drool is happening. Dogs can drool when they’re super happy—like that time your friend brought cake to the party—but too much drooling could mean rabies. It should basically be called “the slobber attack.” If there’s an ocean of goo pouring from their mouth like they’re auditioning for a horror film, maybe take two steps back.

Step 3: Weird Barking or Growling
And don’t forget about noise! If the dog starts barking like they’re reenacting a dramatic soap opera scene—lots of growling and yipping—you might wanna reconsider hanging around. Like, who wants to deal with a rabid dog trying to give them private drama lessons?

Step 4: Isolation Mode Activated
Now here’s another funny thing—if that fluffy pal starts acting like they’re on an intense reality show and isolating themselves from their pack—that’s not normal either! Dogs love their buddies unless they’re feeling kinda weird or sick. If Mr Fluffypaws is hiding in bushes while everyone else is feeling social… uh-oh.

Step 5: The Agitated Wiggle Dance
Now let’s talk energy levels. A dog with rabies might get all twitchy and agitated instead of chillin’. It’s like they just drank three Red Bulls! They can’t sit still; it’s like they forgot how to relax on those comfy couches people buy them.

Step 6: Strange Attempts at Eating
And when it comes to food… if your furry friend suddenly decides that kibble looks more like toxic waste than dinner—it ain’t good news. If they’re trying to eat but then turning their nose up at treats as if they’re expired or something—watch out!

Step 7: Sudden Changes in Behavior
Lastly, keep an eye out for any crazy personality shifts. It’s kind of like when your best friend suddenly decides they love pineapple on pizza—totally unexpected and slightly concerning. A normally friendly pup showing aggression or being all possessive over things could spell trouble.

So now you’re armed with some fun tips to figure out if a dog has rabies! Just remember folks, dogs are great but sometimes life gets complicated in the animal kingdom!

FAQ Section

Question: What should I do if I think a dog has rabies?
Answer: Run away slowly but don’t look scared cause that’s basically inviting trouble! Then call animal control or someone who knows what they’re doing.

Question: Can humans get rabies too?
Answer: Yup! It’s not just the doggy drama; humans can catch it too if bitten by an infected pooch so be careful out there!

Question: How do dogs get rabies anyway?
Answer: Mostly from bites of other wild animals who are infected like bats or raccoons…yeah those little troublemakers!

Question: Is rabies curable?
Answer: Sadly no once symptoms appear it’s usually game over for pups…but catching it early means we have shots that help prevent it!

Question: Do all dogs with rabies show every symptom you mentioned?
Answer: Nope not always! Some might have only one weird tick while other ones might throw all possible symptoms at ya—it’s unpredictable like your uncle at Thanksgiving dinner.

Question: Can vaccines prevent rabies in dogs?
Answer: Yes yes yes! Vaccinating dogs makes sure they don’t turn into foamy-mouthed monsters; it’s super important!

Question: Should I approach any strange dog acting weirdly?
Answer: Definitely NOT! It’s best to keep your distance from any strange behavior unless you’re ready for some surprises (and not the good type)!

So next time you see a pooch acting funky watch closely before you become best buds! Safety first my friend!