Rabies in puppies: When do symptoms show and how long do they live?

Question

Can a puppy still live 7 weeks long if its right now already infected with rabies (has rabies virus in saliva and can now transmit the virus through bite)? Or should the puppy be dead long before these 7 weeks? What comes first, shedding of virus or showing of symptoms? Are the two stages close to each other? Pet's info: Dog | Siberian Husky | Male | 4 months and 15 days old | 1lb

Linda G, MS, DVM · Accepted Answer

Hello. Symptoms of rabies generally coincide with the point in time the virus become infective to others. This is because of how thew virus ascends the nervous system to reach the salivary glands & the brain, which can be 2-10 days. A mammel with active viral load could not survive as long as 7 weeks, but we can see very long pre-infective periods. This is why in some instances a pet may be quarantined for up to 6 months, depending on vaccination status or a known exposure to a rabid animal. It would be best to really discuss this with your local vet who can sort out all the particular details of your situation. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Rabies in puppies: When do symptoms show and how long do they live?

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