4. The Critical Concern: Rabies
Rabies is a fatal viral disease that attacks the central nervous system. Once symptoms appear, it is nearly always fatal, which is why immediate medical intervention is essential if exposure is suspected.
4.1. Identifying a Potentially Rabid Dog
Understanding the signs of rabies in a dog is crucial for assessing the risk after a bite. A rabid animal may exhibit several distinct symptoms:
- Behavioral Changes: The dog may become suddenly aggressive and hostile or, conversely, uncharacteristically timid and withdrawn.
- Excessive Salivation: Difficulty swallowing, caused by paralysis of the throat muscles, leads to excessive drooling or a “foaming at the mouth” appearance.
- Hydrophobia (Fear of Water): A classic sign of rabies is a fear of water. The dog may hesitate to drink or experience severe muscle spasms at the sight of water.
- Paralysis: Weakness or paralysis may develop, often starting in the hind legs and spreading throughout the body.
- Unusual Sounds: The dog may produce strange, hoarse, or pained-sounding barks.
- Light and Sound Sensitivity: An infected dog may become agitated or distressed by bright lights and loud noises.
4.2. Medical Response to Rabies Risk
When there is a risk of rabies exposure, doctors initiate a treatment protocol called Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP). This urgent intervention has two key parts:
- Rabies Immune Globulin (RIG): This is a dose of human-derived rabies antibodies that provides immediate, passive immunity. It is injected directly into and around the bite wound to neutralize the virus at the site of entry before it can spread.
- Rabies Vaccine: A series of vaccine shots—typically five doses given on days 0, 3, 7, 14, and 28—is administered to stimulate the body’s own immune system. This helps the body build its own long-term, active immunity to fight off the virus.
Understanding these potential consequences underscores the importance of seeking immediate and proper medical care after any dog bite.