VET ADVICE: RABIES PREVENTION

Rabies is a deadly viral disease that attacks the central nervous system of mammals. It is spread through the saliva of infected animals, usually via a bite or scratch.

How Dogs Get Rabies

Dogs can get Rabies when they come into contact with the saliva of an infected animal.

“Rabies is transmitted through saliva, in any form, usually through biting or licking. Rabies is a zoonotic disease, which means that humans can get it too! It’s important to note that rabies can affect all mammals.” says Dr Jozaan Nel.

Once infected saliva enters the body through broken skin, the virus travels along the peripheral nerves to the central nervous system and brain, eventually proving fatal.

Can Dogs Get Rabies Without Being Bitten?

Yes, dogs can contract rabies without a direct bite. Transmission can occur if infected saliva comes into contact with an open scratch, skin wound, or the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, or mouth, like when an infected animal licks a pet’s face or existing wound.

However, the WHO rabies fact sheet suggests that ordinary contact with intact, healthy skin, or touching an infected animal’s blood, urine, or faeces, does not transmit the rabies virus.

What Are the First Signs of Rabies in Dogs?

The early rabies warning signs include “mainly, a change in behaviour. Some animals become very aggressive, chew various objects, and develop a fear of water. There can be progressive paralysis and difficulty swallowing. ” says Dr Nel. Signs typically appear 21 to 80 days after exposure, although the incubation period can range from 10 days to several months.

Also watch for:

• Uncharacteristic aggression or unusual clinginess and friendliness
• Restlessness, anxiety, and disorientation
• Excessive salivation (drooling) and difficulty swallowing
• Weakness, loss of coordination, and eventual paralysis.

Furious vs. paralytic rabies in dogs

Rabies can present in two forms: furious, causing extreme agitation, excitability and aggression, or paralytic, causing gradual muscle weakness, paralysis and heavy drooling. Not every infected dog becomes aggressive, so any unexplained neurological changes, such as unusual behaviour or difficulty swallowing should be treated as an emergency.

Why Is Rabies Still a Risk in South Africa?

Rabies remains an ongoing public health concern in South Africa due to wildlife reservoirs in domestic animal populations, such as mongooses, jackals, foxes and even Cape fur seals. High numbers of unvaccinated stray animals in certain regions also make controlling outbreaks challenging.

How Common Is Rabies in Dogs in South Africa?

Rabies remains a real and ongoing risk in South Africa. Between January 2024 and June 2025, approximately 408 animal rabies outbreaks were reported to the Department of Agriculture, with cases occurring across multiple provinces. NICD data also showed a spike in human and animal cases in 2021, emphasising that rabies is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can spread from animals to humans. Strict domestic vaccination compliance is essential to maintain community immunity and preventing domestic spillover from wildlife.

What Should You Do If Your Dog May Have Been Exposed?

If you suspect your dog has been bitten by or exposed to a potentially rabid animal, avoid direct contact with your dog’s saliva or any open wounds. Follow this rabies safety advice for pet owners:

• Safely isolate your pet away from family members and other domestic animals.
• Consult your vet immediately and follow professional instructions regarding assessment or potential quarantine protocols.
• Take your pet’s vaccination card with you.

Can An Exposed Dog Receive Another Rabies Vaccination?

Yes. According to the Centre for Diseases Control, a dog exposed to rabies should get an immediate rabies booster vaccination to help strengthen its immune response. However, vaccination and any required quarantine or monitoring will depend on local veterinary and public health regulations.

How Can You Prevent Rabies in Dogs?

“The most effective way of managing rabies is to vaccinate properly and appropriately, with an emphasis on correct vaccination schedules. There is no cure, only prevention.”  Dr Nel advises.

You can also help prevent exposure by keeping dogs from roaming unsupervised, especially at night when wild carriers are active, and having pet insurance in place for unexpected emergencies.

When Should A Dog Be Vaccinated Against Rabies?

According to the South African National Department of Health , puppies must be vaccinated against rabies at 12 weeks of age, receiving a booster within 12 months. After this initial series, regular boosters are required every 1-3 years as advised by your vet depending on local laws and regional risk profile.

Can People Get Rabies from Dogs?

Yes. Rabies is a fatal zoonotic disease, and the vast majority of human rabies cases result from dog bites.

If a person is exposed to saliva from a potentially rabid animal through a bite, scratch or open wound, the WHO rabies exposure guidance recommends immediately flushing the area thoroughly with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes, followed by urgent medical attention.

Common Rabies Myths

Myth 1: Only Aggressive, Foaming-At-The-Mouth Dogs Have Rabies.

Fact: Many rabid dogs display the “paralytic” form, showing lethargy, weakness, or sudden shyness without any overt aggression.

Myth 2: Indoor Dogs Do Not Need To Be Vaccinated.

Wildlife or infected strays can sometimes enter yards, particularly in rural areas, and even an indoor pet can be exposed if it slips outside or encounters an infected animal. A normally wary wild animal, such as a black-backed jackal, behaving unusually tamely or approaching people or homes should be treated as a warning sign, as rabid wildlife can lose its natural fear of humans.

Myth 3: A Healthy-Looking Animal Cannot Pose A Rabies Risk.

Fact: Animals can shed the rabies virus in their saliva a few days before obvious clinical signs appear.

Protect Your Dog Against Rabies

Protecting your pet involves simple, consistent actions: keep their vaccinations current, supervise outdoor time, and seek immediate professional advice following any potential exposure. Visit dotsure.co.za to learn more about safeguarding your family, contact us for support, or get a quotefor cover today.