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Bite from 6months old dog.
Hello, i was bitten(like she brushed her tooth onto my finger) by a pet dog who is 6months old and not vaccinate. No blood but a slightly visible scratch.
What should i do? Do i need rabies vaccination? As there was no blood. And there is no pain as well.
Answers (19)
Indian national guidelines recommend starting the vaccine immediately for such scratch from an unvaccinated dog, even if there is no blood
because you are already 9 days past the event
I would say you no longer need the shots for this specific bite, as the 10 day rule has been cleared.
If your puppy is acting normally, eating well, and playing as usual, the risk of rabies is zero,you can be completely assured.
Next Steps
You are likely very safe because the dog is a pet and has survived 9 days. Once she crosses Day 10 healthy, you can stop worrying. Just focus on getting her vaccinated now so you can play with her without any fear
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This is low risk (Category 2 exposure) since no bleeding, only scratch.
Still, start anti-rabies vaccine for safety. No need of immunoglobulin.
Wash wound well with soap + water for 10–15 min and apply antiseptic.
Observe dog for 10 days. If it stays healthy, risk is minimal. Consult me if any doubt or for vaccine schedule.
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This appears to be a Category II exposure (minor scratch without bleeding). Even if there is no visible blood, rabies vaccination (ARV) is recommended when the dog is unvaccinated.
Next Steps
Immediately wash the area thoroughly with soap and water for 10–15 minutes. Start the anti-rabies vaccine course (days 0, 3, 7, 14). Also, observe the dog for 10 days—if the dog remains healthy, further risk is very low.
Health Tips
Tetanus status should also be updated if not taken in the last 1 year
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Since there is a history of contact with an unvaccinated dog and even a minor scratch without bleeding, it is considered a Category II exposure.
Next Steps
- Immediately wash the area thoroughly with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes.
- Apply an antiseptic (e.g., povidone iodine).
- Start anti-rabies vaccination (ARV) as soon as possible.
Health Tips
- Rabies immunoglobulin (RIG) is not required as there is no bleeding wound.
- Also, observe the dog for 10 days if possible. However, do not delay vaccination.
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