Dog scratch with no blood: is there a rabies risk?
The short answer
Wash the dog scratch with soap and running water, at least 15 minutes.
Skin not broken: no injection. Broken skin, even without blood: see a doctor today.
Kutte ke nakhun lage to kya kare?
Pehle sabun se 15 minute dhoyein; skin kati ho to aaj hi doctor ko dikhayein.
Dog scratch: check the skin first
- Rabies spreads when dog saliva gets into broken skin
- Nail or teeth mark, skin unbroken: no injection
- Nail or teeth broke skin, no blood: see a doctor today
- Dog scratch bleeds: doctor today, who usually starts injections
- Your own dog? Take its vaccine certificate; doctor usually starts injections
- Check the skin in good light; unsure? Treat as broken
Scratch from a street dog
- Street dog scratch, skin not broken: no injection
- Skin broken: see a doctor today; watch the dog daily for 10 days
- Skin broken, dog never seen again: likely full injection course
Dog scratch: never do this
- No chilli, oil, turmeric, lime or salt on the scratch
- Skin broken? Don't wait for the dog to fall ill
- Don't stop rabies injections when the scratch heals
When help can’t wait
See a doctor or vet if
- Dog ill or missing within 10 days? Tell your doctor
- Unsure of your dog's booster dates? A vet can check
- Your dog's rabies booster is overdue: book it this week
Go to a clinic now
Dog scratch bled: doctor today; rabies injections free at government hospitals. Dog drooling or snapping at nothing: call a vet.
Not sure? Ask a vet.
Questions here are for non-urgent pet care.Prefer a video consultation?
This page is for general guidance and does not replace an examination by a vet.