How a Dog Get Rabies: Complete Guide for Indians

Rabies is one of the deadliest diseases known to humans and animals. Sadly, it’s still common in India. Just recently, 22-year-old Kabaddi player Brijesh Solanki from Gujarat died of rabies weeks after a puppy he rescued bit him. His story is a reminder of how dangerous rabies is and why we should never ignore even a small dog bite.

This blog explains how a dog get rabies, how it spreads to humans, symptoms to watch for, and what to do if bitten.

How a Dog Get Rabies

Dogs usually get rabies through the bite of another infected animal. The virus spreads through saliva when the skin is broken. Stray dogs often pass it to each other because they fight or mix with infected animals.

Can a dog get rabies without being bitten?

It’s very rare, but yes, rabies can also spread if infected saliva touches open wounds or the eyes, nose, or mouth of a dog.

Can a home dog get rabies?

Yes. Even pet dogs can get rabies if they are not vaccinated and come in contact with an infected animal. Vaccination is the only way to protect them.

How does rabies come to dogs?

• Bite from a rabid dog or wild animal
• Saliva of infected animal entering wounds
• Rarely, scratches from infected animals

Symptoms of Rabies in Dogs

Dogs with rabies may show:

• Sudden aggression or biting without reason
• Excessive drooling and difficulty swallowing
• Fear of water (hydrophobia)
• Restlessness, confusion, or paralysis

If you notice these in a dog, stay away and inform local animal authorities.

Rabies in Humans

How does rabies start in humans?

It starts when saliva from a rabid animal enters the body through a bite, scratch, or lick on broken skin. The virus attacks the brain and nervous system.

Can humans get rabies without a bite?

Yes, though rare. It can spread if infected saliva enters an open wound, eyes, nose, or mouth.

Early signs of rabies in humans

• Fever, headache, and weakness
• Pain, tingling, or burning at the bite site
• Anxiety or irritability

Symptoms of rabies in humans (later stage)

• Fear of water (hydrophobia)
• Difficulty swallowing and breathing
• Hallucinations and confusion
• Muscle spasms and paralysis

How long until rabies kills a human?

Once symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal within a few days to weeks.

Is rabies curable in humans?

No. There is no cure once symptoms start. That’s why prevention and immediate treatment are so important.

What To Do After a Dog Bite

This is where many people, sadly including athlete Brijesh Solanki, go wrong. He did not go to a hospital after the bite, which cost him his life.

Steps you must take immediately after a dog bite:

1. Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and running water for 15 minutes.
2. Do not apply home remedies like oil, turmeric, or chili powder.
3. Visit a hospital immediately for anti-rabies vaccine and immunoglobulin if needed.
4. Complete the full course of vaccination as prescribed.

There are no safe remedies at home. Only proper medical treatment can prevent rabies.

Key Takeaways for Indians

• Vaccinate your dogs regularly.
• Avoid contact with stray or aggressive animals.
• Teach children never to play with unknown dogs.
• If bitten, wash the wound and go to the hospital immediately—don’t wait.

Final Word

Rabies is 100% preventable but 100% fatal if ignored. The tragic story of Kabaddi player Brijesh Solanki shows how even a small puppy bite can turn deadly. The lesson is clear: never take chances. Know how a dog gets rabies, protect your pets with vaccination, and always seek medical help right after a bite.

FAQs on Rabies

Q. How does rabies come to dogs?

Through bites or saliva from infected animals.

Q. Can a home dog get rabies?

Yes, if unvaccinated and exposed. Vaccination prevents it.

Q. How does rabies start in humans?

It begins after saliva from an infected animal enters through a bite or wound.

Q. Can humans get rabies without a bite?

Yes, if saliva enters open wounds or mucous membranes.

Q. How long until rabies kills a human?

Usually within days to weeks once symptoms start.

Q. Is rabies curable in humans?

No. Only prevention and vaccination after exposure works.

Q. What are the early signs of rabies in humans?

Fever, pain at the bite site, weakness, and anxiety.