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Im currently undergoing my rabies vaccination series however Igot scratch from my puppy again and what precaution should I take
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Infectious Illnesses
Question #20014
22 hours ago
28

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
Rabies
Dog bite
Precaution
Repeat scratch
Second exposure
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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.
22 hours 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

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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.
22 hours 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.

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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.
22 hours 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

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