I'm rather worried...what has caused the drastic change in behavior?

babsbag

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That was very strange behavior for sure. I am really sorry you lost her.
 

ldawntaylor

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Thank-you.

Why this happened is something I may never know. I just hope the original cause is nothing contagious. Checking all of the other goats more thoroughly is on today's agenda to say the least.
 

Southern by choice

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Very sorry for your loss. :hit

I would suspect rabies
There is still a possibility that she may have gotten bit by a bat, most people think larger animals and they forget about the bats if there's a way you can get her head in I would definitely have it checked.
 

ldawntaylor

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I'm afraid I can't do that. I suppose the next best thing would be to call the local vets on Monday and find out if they have had any reports of rabies. I know individual cases pop up periodically, but it would be good to know if there has been a problem lately.

I know there are some bats in the area. I also know their bites can be so small they are long gone by the time the symptoms show up.

Rabies was a thought that crossed my mind. I just didn't want to entertain the notion.

If that really was the cause then it is just as well that she chose to isolate herself like she did. I am equally glad that she was only showing the one behavior change and refusing to drink water on a hot day. Also, that in the time spent with her she did not seem to be in pain.

If rabies really was the cause then it is indeed a blessing that the time was so short between her running away that first time and her passing.

Rabies is one vaccination I keep up to date on the cats and dogs.
 

babsbag

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I would be concerned for you too, not just the cats and dogs. Also the other goats, but if she is gone then I am not sure what the protocol would be.
 
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ldawntaylor

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She had not drawn blood from me or any of the animals. So the only possible risk is her doeling. That doeling was born in January. I don't know how long rabies incubation is but I think 7 months is too long.

The bigger concern really is if there are other infected bats or other animals around. If so, then my other animals run a risk of being infected.

I wonder if a rabies vaccine is an option for the goats? Another reason to call the vet on Monday.
 
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Southern by choice

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Many are vaccinating for Rabies. The county above us had 2 goats with rabies. A few miles from us there were several cows and their Livestock guardian donkey that ended up with rabies. Their whole cattle herd was quarantined for 6 months.
 

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Sorry you lost her... The thought of rabies scares me... in addition to the vet, you might want to contact the county extension agent. In a case of possible rabies, I believe the state will pay for the test, so it wouldn't be $$ out of your pocket. Another option might be the state university... I don't know when she died or her status, or how long after the death the brain can be "held" and still do a valid test. All questions you could ask... Sorry.
 

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