AskDocDoc
/
/
/
Im currently undergoing my rabies vaccination series however Igot scratch from my puppy again and what precaution should I take
FREE!Ask Doctors — 24/7
Connect with Doctors 24/7. Ask anything, get expert help today.
500 doctors ONLINE
#1 Medical Platform
Ask question for free
00H : 42M : 17S
background image
Click Here
background image
Infectious Illnesses
Question #20014
143 days ago
327

Im currently undergoing my rabies vaccination series however Igot scratch from my puppy again and what precaution should I take - #20014

Polly

Im currently undergoing my rabies vaccination series today is my final dose however Igot scratch from my puppy again the scarch did not cause significant bleeding but there was a minor scratch after that there was minimal redness the skin tore slightly and inside there was a slight hint of blood but there was no significant bleeding and it happned during my vaccination period today is my last dose what precaution should I take

Age: 18
Dog bite
Rabies
Precaution
Repeat scratch
Second exposure
FREE
Question is closed
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image asteriksCTA image

Doctors' responses

Dr. Arsha K Isac
I am a general dentist with 3+ years of working in real-world setups, and lemme say—every single patient teaches me something diff. It’s not just teeth honestly, it’s people… and how they feel walking into the chair. I try really hard to not make it just a “procedure thing.” I explain stuff in plain words—no confusing dental jargon, just straight talk—coz I feel like when ppl *get* what's going on, they feel safer n that makes all the difference. Worked with all ages—like, little kids who need that gentle nudge about brushing, to older folks who come in with long histories and sometimes just need someone to really sit n listen. It’s weirdly rewarding to see someone walk out lighter, not just 'coz their toothache's gone but coz they felt seen during the whole thing. A lot of ppl come in scared or just unsure, and I honestly take that seriously. I keep the vibe calm. Try to read their mood, don’t rush. I always tell myself—every smile’s got a story, even the broken ones. My thing is: comfort first, then precision. I want the outcome to last, not just look good for a week. Not tryna claim perfection or magic solutions—just consistent, clear, hands-on care where patients feel heard. I think dentistry should *fit* the person, not push them into a box. That's kinda been my philosophy from day one. And yeah, maybe sometimes I overexplain or spend a bit too long checking alignment again but hey, if it means someone eats pain-free or finally smiles wide in pics again? Worth it. Every time.
143 days ago
5

Hello,

You’re almost done with your rabies PEP (post-exposure vaccination), so don’t panic this situation is usually manageable.

Wash the scratch with soap and running water for 15 minutes, then apply antiseptic.

Complete today’s final rabies vaccine dose as planned.

Usually no need to restart or repeat the series for an exposure that happens during the same vaccination course.

Do NOT repeat rabies immunoglobulin (RIG) if you already received it.

🛑Keep the puppy under 10-day observation. If it becomes sick, behaves strangely, or dies → see a doctor urgently.

Get medical care urgently if Deep bite, heavy bleeding Scratch on face/head Puppy is unvaccinated or cannot be observed Signs of wound infection (pus, swelling, fever)

Ok dont worry Stay calm and healthy dear

I trust this helps Thank you

1805 answered questions
56% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies
Dr. Shayeque Reza
I completed my medical degree in 2023, but honestly, my journey in healthcare started way before that. Since 2018, I’ve been actively involved in clinical practice—getting hands-on exposure across multiple departments like ENT, pediatrics, dermatology, ophthalmology, medicine, and emergency care. One of the most intense and defining phases of my training was working at a District Government Hospital for a full year during the COVID pandemic. It was chaotic, unpredictable, and exhausting—but it also grounded me in real-world medicine like no textbook ever could. Over time, I’ve worked in both OPD and IPD setups, handling everything from mild viral fevers to more stubborn, long-term conditions. These day-to-day experiences really built my base and taught me how to stay calm when things get hectic—and how to adjust fast when plans don’t go as expected. What I’ve learned most is that care isn't only about writing the right medicine. It’s about being fully there, listening properly, and making sure the person feels seen—not just treated. Alongside clinical work, I’ve also been exposed to preventive health, health education, and community outreach. These areas really matter to me because I believe real impact begins outside the hospital, with awareness and early intervention. My approach is always centered around clarity, empathy, and clinical logic—I like to make sure every patient knows exactly what’s going on and why we’re doing what we’re doing. I’ve always felt a pull towards general medicine and internal care, and honestly, I’m still learning every single day—each patient brings a new lesson. Medicine never really sits still, it keeps shifting, and I try to shift with it. Not just in terms of what I know, but also in how I listen and respond. For me, it’s always been about giving real care. Genuine, respectful, and the kind that actually helps a person heal—inside and out.
143 days ago
5

Conclusion

Since you are already completing your rabies vaccination series (today is your final dose) and the scratch from your puppy was minor with no significant bleeding, no additional rabies vaccines or rabies immunoglobulin are needed.

The most important precaution is:

Immediately wash the scratch thoroughly with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes

Apply an antiseptic (povidone-iodine / chlorhexidine)

As long as you complete today’s final rabies vaccine dose, you are well protected against rabies from this exposure.

Monitor the scratch for local infection signs (increasing redness, pain, swelling, pus). If these occur, see a doctor for wound care or antibiotics—but not for rabies.

Overall, this is a low-risk exposure, and your ongoing vaccination provides adequate protection.

1972 answered questions
59% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies
Dr. Bharat Joshi
I’m a periodontist and academician with a strong clinical and teaching background. Over the last 4 years and 8 months, I’ve been actively involved in dental education, guiding students at multiple levels including dental hygienist, BDS, and MDS programs. Currently, I serve as a Reader at MMCDSR in Ambala, Haryana—a role that allows me to merge my academic passion with hands-on experience. Clinically, I’ve been practicing dentistry for the past 12 years. From routine procedures like scaling and root planing to more advanced cases involving grafts, biopsies, and implant surgeries. Honestly, I still find joy in doing a simple RCT when it’s needed. It’s not just about the procedure but making sure the patient feels comfortable and safe. Academically, I have 26 research publications to my credit. I’m on the editorial boards of the Archives of Dental Research and Journal of Dental Research and Oral Health, and I’ve spent a lot of time reviewing manuscripts—from case reports to meta-analyses and even book reviews. I was honored to receive the “Best Editor” award by Innovative Publications, and Athena Publications recognized me as an “excellent reviewer,” which honestly came as a bit of a surprise! In 2025, I had the opportunity to present a guest lecture in Italy on traumatic oral lesions. Sharing my work and learning from peers globally has been incredibly fulfilling. Outside academics and clinics, I’ve also worked in the pharmaceutical sector as a Drug Safety Associate for about 3 years, focusing on pharmacovigilance. That role really sharpened my attention to detail and deepened my understanding of drug interactions and adverse effects. My goal is to keep learning, and give every patient and student my absolute best.
143 days ago
5

Hello dear See as per history you are going to complete vaccination. As the trauma was not associated with saliva contamination so need to extend the vaccination Instead just Clean or toilet the wound with soap Avoid application of any medication That is sufficient from your end Regards

2990 answered questions
65% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies

If you’re in the midst of completing your rabies vaccination series and you’ve sustained another scratch, you’re generally still protected, since the vaccine provides immunity against the virus. Today’s scheduled final dose is critical to ensure full protection, so be sure to receive it. Now, for the scratch itself, attending to the wound is important. Gently clean the area with soap and water, which helps prevent bacterial infection. You might also apply an antiseptic ointment to the site to keep it clean. It’s important to monitor the wound for signs of infection such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or pus. If these occur, seeking medical attention would be wise. Given you’re already being vaccinated, there’s usually no need for additional doses post-exposure in this context, unless guidance from your healthcare provider specifies other actions. They may suggest monitoring the puppy’s health, as a precaution, observing for any signs of illness. Stay in contact with your vet regarding the puppy’s vaccine status, as a vaccinated animal further reduces risk. If ever in doubt, consulting with a healthcare provider offers tailored advice and confirms that you’re following the proper precautions.

20177 answered questions
90% best answers

0 replies
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously

Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.

About our doctors

Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


early symptoms of chikungunya
Is it okay to have tests after taking ibuprofen? I have temperature 39,3
what to eat to increase platelets in dengue
what is viral hepatitis
what is the symptoms of viral fever
Tattoos after bacteremia
can dengue patient eat chicken
how is hepatitis caused
tomato flu is caused by
What to do if a dog scratched me and I just got a rabies vaccine 10 days ago?
dengue se bachao
Should I get a rabies vaccine after a cat scratch if I've had five rabies shots in the past?
how to protect yourself from cold and cough
How long does it take to recover from breathing issues after stopping metformin?
diet for dengue patients
What to do if my wife has occasional bleeding from the mouth and elevated liver function tests?
Infección y dolor en la boca por quitarme las muelas con cirugía hace más de3 dias
is typhoid infectious
dengue ka upchar
best food for dengue patient
reasons of dengue
dengue second time symptoms
causes and symptoms of dengue
what are the causes of dengue
is apple good for dengue
Immediate Help Needed. Throat is swollen.
typhoid spread
What food is good for dengue fever?
how typhoid spreads
How to get rid from fungal infection that's on my hips and itching
symptoms of new viral fever
Urinary tract infection flank pain
What to do if I can't remember possible rabies exposure after being in the woods?
chicken guniya symptoms
will typhoid spread
Concern About Kitten Bite and Rabies Risk
which fruit is best for dengue
can we eat apple in dengue
how is hepatitis b transmitted
dengue fever food not to eat
What to do for chest pain and difficulty swallowing after taking doxycycline for lung infection?
how to avoid dengue fever
in dengue what should we eat
Dengue fever fruits
chikungunya diagnosis
what is the cause of dengue
dengue me konsa fruit khana chahiye
can hepatitis b be cured
viral fevers
দাদ হয়েছে কি করে কমবে? অনেক বিরক্ত লাগছে।
foods for dengue patient
why do we get cold
how to cure viral fever
how much kiwi should i eat a day in dengue
rainy diseases
what causes hepatitis c
nowadays viral fever symptoms
dengue treatment fruits
Is it safe to take rabies shots for a small cat scratch on my finger?
dengue fever is caused by which virus
Can viral fever spread?
how is typhoid spread
What should I do if my mother has sudden severe dizziness and ear symptoms?
typhoid contagious
Persistent Lightheadedness After High Fever
what kills infection naturally
what is dengue symptoms
What food is good for dengue fever?
can we eat ghee in dengue
is banana good for dengue patient
chikungunya causes
chikungunya is caused by which virus
viral fever range
does hepatitis c go away
how to reduce blood infection by home remedies
dengue me apple khana chahiye
how to cure body pain after dengue fever
What to do about persistent nasal discharge and fatigue after sinus surgery for aspergillus infection?
how to recover faster from dengue
how to prevent viral fever
What should I do about feeling faint, extremely thirsty, and nauseous after starting moxifloxacin for bronchitis?
typhoid transmission
dengue patient food
food for dengue patients
define viral hepatitis
care for dengue patients
Risk of anisakis infection from fish
home remedies for viral infection
which medicine is best for viral fever
What to do for a bad sore throat, headache, stuffy nose, and stomach pain?
I took 4 amoxicillin pills on my own but didn't need them
diet in dengue fever
chikungunya symptoms
which viral fever is going on
typhoid is transmitted by
viral fever
tomato fever in adults
does typhoid spread
How to get well soon as soon aspossible?
dog scratch infection symptoms