3 Things You May Not Know About Rabies

Rabies is a scary word and disease. However, the interpretation of it is affected by the position of mainstream media. While most cartoons and media outlets portray rabid animals as monstrous and aggressive, some show goofy, unhappy, and harmless animals. Wildlife removal in Whitby encourages all citizens to remain vigilant about rabies. While not all animals will become aggressive, not all are harmless. In honesty, all wildlife showing signs of rabies should be avoided. Do not attempt DIY removal. Stand clear of the animal and call a wildlife professional. There are likely many things you do not know about the virus. 

Dangers of Rabies and What To Know

Rabies affects the spinal cord and brain, the central nervous system. The virus can cause rapid deterioration without quick medical treatment, leading to brain disease and eventual death. If the symptoms of rabies appear, the virus is fatal. Therefore, avoiding animal contact is essential. Symptoms of rabies include: 

• Fatigue 
• Vomiting 
• Fever 
• Tingling, prickling, or itching 

Symptoms can take time to appear. Some recorded cases took anywhere from a few days to over a year. While flu-like symptoms are usual, there are several other factors that many people are unaware of or just assume. 

1. Mammals Are Universally Susceptible

All mammals, including humans, can become infected with the rabies virus. Because of the overall susceptibility, caution is necessary when around or interacting with animals that show signs of the infection. A single bite, scratch, or misplaced lick can lead to the transfer of the virus. Still, the most common transmission of the virus stems from bites.  

2. Not All Infected Animals Foam at the Mouth

There are different types of rabies, and not all of them cause an animal to foam at the mouth. While foaming at the mouth is a commonly preached warning sign, it is a mistake to assume wildlife that is not foaming is healthy.  Paralytic rabies causes loss of muscle control. The illness makes an animal feel lazy and lethargic. In many cases, an infected animal will appear docile and harmless, and unlike other forms of rabies, it will never be foaming from the mouth. 

3. Rabies Can Cause Hydrophobia

While you might not think about it much, one of the best things you can do when you are ill is hydrate. Water actually helps the body function and perform optimally during times of illness. Unfortunately, animals suffering from rabies may avoid water altogether.   Rabies can cause hydrophobia or a fear of water. The fear likely stems from the pain of swallowing. Initially, the disease may present a sore throat. As the virus progresses, the act of swallowing can become painful, so much so that the animal fears taking a single drink. 

Hiring Wildlife Professionals is the Only Recourse

It would be best never to handle wildlife because there is no telling what infections, viruses, or temperaments they have. If you hand-feed squirrels or raccoons, or any other mammals, you are taking a risk with your life. It is always better to leave wildlife control to the experts.  Wildlife professionals are animal behaviourists, meaning they understand what natural behaviour is and what is not. They can use their expertise to determine how best to help the animal and ensure the homeowner's safety and their property.  Do you have any wildlife around your home that appears to be acting strangely? If so, stay clear of them and contact Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control to schedule a property assessment. The company will send out a team of animal control specialists to examine the scene and determine the animal's health. They will also figure out the best way to safely remove the animal from your property.