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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Is Rabies Vaccination Required When Scratched By A Dog?

Hai Doctor,
Today morning my pet dog scratched me with his nails but there was no blood only scratches on my hand.My dog is getting vaccinations regularly.Is injection is required for me to avoid any problems due to his scratches?

Thanking you,
Alex Jose
Fri, 12 May 2017
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi Alex, Thank you for trusting healthcare magic
I understand with your concern, in this case as long as your dog getting vaccinations regularly and the scratch received through claws or nails the chances of rabies are less, but not entirely ruled out (the dog might have licked his paws, infections can occur if the skin is broken and bacteria from the saliva of the dog that has bitten you, is passed into your bloodstream. Sometimes there might be no bleeding, so you need to make sure the skin is not broken.). As no skin was broken, you need not worry. Wash the scratch with an antiseptic and don't cover it. You might need a tetanus booster injection if the last shot was more than a year ago.

I hope this information helps.
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Is Rabies Vaccination Required When Scratched By A Dog?

Hi Alex, Thank you for trusting healthcare magic I understand with your concern, in this case as long as your dog getting vaccinations regularly and the scratch received through claws or nails the chances of rabies are less, but not entirely ruled out (the dog might have licked his paws, infections can occur if the skin is broken and bacteria from the saliva of the dog that has bitten you, is passed into your bloodstream. Sometimes there might be no bleeding, so you need to make sure the skin is not broken.). As no skin was broken, you need not worry. Wash the scratch with an antiseptic and don t cover it. You might need a tetanus booster injection if the last shot was more than a year ago. I hope this information helps.