To diagnose rabies in dogs, the following tests can be performed12345:
- Direct fluorescent antibody test (dFA): This test requires brain tissue from animals suspected of being rabid and can only be performed post-mortem.
- Saliva test: Saliva can be tested by virus isolation or reverse transcription followed by polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).
- Serum and spinal fluid test: Serum and spinal fluid are tested for antibodies to rabies virus.
- Biopsy of brain tissue: To be 100% accurate, testing requires a biopsy of brain tissue, so it can’t be completed until the animal has died or been euthanized.
- Rabies virus is transmitted through direct contact (such as through broken skin or mucous membranes in the eyes, nose, or mouth) with saliva or brain/nervous system tissue from an infected animal.
If you dog bites our groomer or we have suspension of illness, please be advised that you will need to show proof of vaccination.