Dogs are seen as some of the most loyal companions that a person can have. However, dogs can also become aggressive if threatened or if they have a condition such as rabies. Let’s look at some clear signs that a dog may become aggressive or that it has rabies.
Rabid Dogs May Produce Excess Saliva
If a dog is salivating or is foaming at the mouth, it is a clear sign that a dog has the rabies virus. A dog that has rabies may also be easily excited or show an inability to swallow. The best thing to do when approaching a dog that appears rabid is to back away slowly and put as much distance between yourself and the animal as possible. Next, call animal control to help handle the situation.
An Aggressive Dog May Show its Teeth
You can tell that a dog is about to become aggressive when it shows its teeth. It may also curl its lip and start to snarl at whatever it perceives as a threat. Dogs use these actions as warning signs not to get any closer because it would rather scare away the threat instead of having to hurt it. Dogs may also nip when it feels like its personal space has been violated.
Rabid Dogs May Be Paralyzed
If you run across a dog that is showing signs of paralysis, it may be a good idea to assume that it has rabies. Professionals, like those at the Law Office of Daniel E Goodman, LLC, know that if your dog shows any of these symptoms, it is in your best interest to take it to the vet immediately for a checkup. This will confirm or rule out the possibility that your dog is rabid, and it may make it easier to create a treatment plan for the animal.
Aggressive Dogs May Growl or Bark
If a dog growls or starts barking in your direction, it could be a sign that it is aggressive. You should also look at the hair on the back of a dog’s neck as well as how straight its tail is. These are both signs that a dog is at attention and is ready to attack at a moment’s notice.
Dogs who are rabid or aggressive toward people can cause serious injury or death. Therefore, it is important to know if a dog has the potential to hurt you or others in your family. If you know of a potentially dangerous dog, stay away from it and call the authorities for help getting it off of the streets.