Rabies in Dogs: Risks, Vaccination and What to Do After a Bite

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

Rabies is rare in vaccinated pets, but it is so dangerous that vaccination and prompt action after exposure are non-negotiable.

What it is

Rabies is caused by a lyssavirus that travels along nerves to the brain. It spreads through saliva, mainly through bites or sometimes through broken skin or mucous membranes. Wildlife such as bats, raccoons, skunks, foxes and mongooses are common reservoirs in many regions, and in some countries stray dogs are the main source.

Where it occurs

Rabies is found on every continent except Antarctica, and some countries, such as the United Kingdom and Australia, are classified as free of terrestrial rabies. Risk depends on location, so ask your vet about your area before you travel. See dog travel health.

Signs

Signs appear days to months after exposure and progress quickly:

• Behavior changes, such as unusual aggression, shyness or restlessness
• Fever and loss of appetite
• Excess drooling and difficulty swallowing
• Disorientation, seizures and paralysis
• A change in bark tone

Another form causes early paralysis and lethargy rather than aggression. Do not handle a suspected rabid animal.

What to do after exposure

1. Do not touch the animal, and keep people and pets away.
2. Wash any wound thoroughly with soap and water for several minutes.
3. Contact your doctor if a person was bitten or scratched.
4. Call your vet and local animal control or health authorities.
5. Follow instructions about booster vaccines, observation or quarantine.

Dogs that are current on rabies vaccination usually receive a booster and are observed, while unvaccinated dogs may face strict quarantine or euthanasia depending on local law.

Vaccination

Rabies vaccines are among the most effective in veterinary medicine. Puppies are usually vaccinated at around 12 to 16 weeks, boosted a year later and then every one to three years depending on the vaccine and local law. Keep certificates and tags up to date. See dog core vs non-core vaccines and adult dog vaccination schedule.

Prevention

• Keep rabies vaccination current
• Do not allow dogs to roam
• Avoid contact with wildlife and stray animals
• Secure garbage and pet food outdoors
• Supervise dogs in yards at dusk and night
• Report wildlife acting strangely

If your dog bites someone

Rabies vaccination status becomes critical. Provide proof, follow local reporting rules and expect an observation period. See what to do if your dog bites.

Traveling

Many countries require rabies vaccination, microchipping, a titer test and a waiting period before entry. Plan months ahead. See dog microchipping.

Questions to ask your vet

Ask when boosters are due, which vaccine type is used, what local law requires and what to do after a wildlife encounter. Ask about travel requirements and whether a titer test is accepted where you are going.

Common mistakes

• Letting vaccination lapse
• Handling a sick wild animal
• Delaying wound washing
• Assuming indoor dogs are safe, since bats can enter homes

Troubleshooting

• My dog fought a raccoon: wear gloves, call your vet and local authorities.
• My dog's certificate is lost: ask your clinic for a copy.
• A bat is in the house: keep pets away and contact local services.

A simple plan

1. Keep vaccination current.
2. Avoid wildlife contact.
3. Act immediately after any exposure.
4. Follow local law.

Real-life examples

A vaccinated dog bitten by a skunk gets a booster and is monitored without problems. An unvaccinated dog exposed to a rabid bat faces quarantine. A traveler spends months preparing paperwork for relocation abroad. Preparation protects everyone.

Why it matters

Rabies is entirely preventable in pets, so keep vaccination current.

Talking to children about wildlife

Teach children never to touch or feed wild animals, to stay away from bats and to tell an adult at once about any bite or scratch. Dogs and children both should avoid animals that act strangely, such as wildlife that appears tame, stumbles or is out in daylight.

The takeaway

Rabies is fatal but preventable. Vaccinate on schedule and seek help immediately after any suspected exposure.

This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every dog is different. If your dog is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.