A dog scratch may appear harmless, especially when it does not produce visible bleeding. However, scratches can sometimes break the skin and create a possible route for infection.
There is another important concern: rabies.
1. A scratch can break the skin: Even a shallow scratch can damage the protective outer layer of the skin.
2. Bacteria can enter the wound: Dogs carry bacteria in their mouths and on their bodies. A contaminated scratch can become infected.
3. Rabies exposure is possible: Rabies is usually transmitted through infected saliva entering broken skin or mucous membranes. A scratch contaminated with saliva may therefore require assessment.
4. The wound may become infected: Watch for increasing redness, warmth, pain, swelling or pus.
5. Tetanus protection may be needed: Your vaccination history and the type of wound help determine whether a booster is necessary.
What should you do?
Wash and flush the scratch thoroughly with soap and running water for about 15 minutes. Then seek prompt medical advice, especially if the animal is unknown, unvaccinated, behaving strangely or unavailable for observation.
A healthcare professional can assess whether rabies vaccination, rabies immunoglobulin or tetanus protection is needed.
Do not wait for the dog to show signs of illness before seeking care. Do not apply soil, pepper, toothpaste or herbal mixtures.
Rabies is extremely dangerous once symptoms develop, but appropriate treatment after exposure can prevent it.
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