I think my pet may have rabies. What are some of the symptoms that pets exhibit when they have this disease?

Because the signs of rabies vary, diagnosis is very difficult while the animal is alive. The only positive diagnosis is by laboratory examination of certain tissues.

Early in the disease, affected animals may show a slight change in behavior or temperament. As the disease progresses, the animal becomes restless and excitable, and may have a tendency to roam or eat unusual objects. The animal then may have trouble swallowing and may begin to drool excessively. Frequently the animal becomes vicious. Convulsions (seizures) may occur and are usually fatal.

Some animals do not die in convulsions, but instead suffer paralysis of the lower jaw. Shortly after this the paralysis spreads over the entire body and death occurs. This is called “dumb” rabies and transmission of rabies CAN occur in this condition.

If a suspected rabid animal bites a person, the animal should be quarantined for 10 days. If the animal develops signs of rabies or dies, tissues must be sent to a laboratory for examination. Since rabies is such a threat to people and other animals, affected animals are not treated.

EUTHANASIA IS MANDATORY BY STATE LAW.