Is it colic, or could it be rabies? The horse with rabies is extremely dangerous to himself, other animals, and humans. Rabies is a fatal viral disease of mammals that can be spread to humans through bites, licks, or through contact with the victim's mucous membranes or an existing wound. Horse owners must use extreme caution if rabies is suspected, and a veterinarian should be called immediately. During his presentation at the 2003 American Association of Equine Practitioners' convention, Tomas Gimenez, Dr.Med.Vet., professor at Clemson University, informed veterinarians of how to manage a potentially rabid horse.

Gimenez explained how the rabies virus (genus Lyssavirus) enters the victim's body either through a wound or through contact with saliva or mucous membranes. It then replicates (reproduces itself) in the local area, invading local nerves. Localized redness or itchiness might be seen, although many times there are no clinical signs at this stage. As the disease progresses, the virus enters the central nervous system.

Clinical signs might not show up for two weeks or for as long as six months after infection is introduced. Signs include fever, lack of appetite, lameness, colic, facial nerve paralysis, weakness, restlessness, a progressing lack of coordination, self-mutilation, aggressiveness, vocalization, drooling, and paralysis. If a veterinarian confirms rabies, then he must call the state veterinarian's office, county animal control, and the county health department immediately. Euthanasia is inevitable, and anyone who has come in contact with the horse must undergo treatment for rabies.

Owners should remember that rabies is preventable by vaccination. Horses older than three months of age should be vaccinated annually by a veterinarian. In order to be effective, the vaccine must be given before exposure