Introduction:

Rabies is a highly contagious and deadly disease that affects the central nervous system of mammals, including humans. It is primarily transmitted through the bite of an infected animal. Identifying a rabid animal and taking appropriate precautions can be life-saving. Here are 12 steps to help you identify a rabid animal.

1. Observe the animal’s behavior: Rabid animals often exhibit erratic and aggressive behavior. They may attack other animals or humans without provocation or display signs of restlessness, disorientation, and agitation.

2. Look for signs of paralysis: As rabies progresses, the affected animal may have difficulty moving its limbs or show partial paralysis, often starting at the hind legs and spreading to other parts of the body.

3. Watch for excessive drooling: Excessive secretion of saliva, also known as hypersalivation or frothing at the mouth, is a common symptom of rabies.

4. Check for hydrophobia: Rabid animals are typically averse to water and may exhibit fear or panic when presented with it. They may also have difficulty swallowing due to throat spasms.

5. Monitor changes in vocalization: Infected animals may make unusual sounds or lose their ability to vocalize entirely because of paralysis in facial muscles.

6. Inspect for self-inflicted wounds: Animals with rabies often bite themselves or inflict injuries due to their agitated state.

7. Look for loss of appetite: As the disease progresses, rabid animals may lose interest in food and water altogether.

8. Be aware of nocturnal animals active during daylight hours: Rabies can alter an animal’s natural habits, causing nocturnal species like raccoons, skunks, and bats to be active during daylight hours.

9. Note any sudden change in temperament: Normally tame animals may become overly aggressive, while aggressive animals could become unusually docile.

10. Keep an eye out for disorientation and confusion: Rabid animals often display dazed or confused behavior, such as wandering aimlessly, walking in circles, or stumbling.

11. Examine for signs of illness: Animals infected with rabies may exhibit fever, lethargy, or weakness.

12. Assess the animal’s appearance: A rabid animal might appear matted, dirty, or disheveled due to neglecting their usual self-grooming habits.

Conclusion:

If you encounter an animal displaying any of these signs, it is crucial to maintain a safe distance and avoid direct contact. Notify your local animal control agency or public health department if you suspect an animal has rabies. Remember, the best prevention against rabies is vaccination for your pets and avoiding contact with wild animals showing abnormal behavior.