Putting Rabies in Perspective

In cases where there is no broken skin from a dog scratch there is usually no need for an injection, although it must be a healthy, vaccinated dog. If you are unsure of your dog's vaccination status, shots are required and all require immediate disinfection of the wound.

Situation 1:

 Dogs with scratches that do not break the skin may not be vaccinated

The dog is a domesticated pet dog, regularly vaccinated and dewormed; and is in good health, with a normal mental appetite and no symptoms of a cold. He rarely comes into contact with other animals and has not been injured or licked by other animals recently. The dog has been caught for a reason, such as pulling, teasing, provoking, grabbing food, toys, etc., or accidentally injured during play. If the above conditions are met, the dog is healthy and therefore not contagious to humans. But be careful! Even if the dog scratches without breaking the skin, the wound needs to be treated by rinsing it with soapy water for about 15 minutes and then disinfecting it by applying alcohol and iodophor alternately 2-3 times.

Situation 2: 

Dog scratches without breaking the skin to be injected

Do not own the dog, or are unsure of the dog's rabies vaccination status and health. Has symptoms of a cold, or has recently been in contact with other animals more frequently. The dog has shown unusual signs such as walking shakily, or being mentally unstable, or has shown obvious aggression. The dog in question has died within 10 days of scratching a person. Once one of the above is present, the dog may be carrying or even have been infected with the rabies virus and it is best to get the shot as soon as possible within 24 hours to prevent the disease.