Dog bite injection: do I need one if my own dog bit me?
The short answer
Wash the dog bite with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes.
Skin not broken: no injection. Skin broken: doctor today for rabies injection.
Kutte ne kaat liya to kya kare?
Pehle sabun se 15 minute dhoyein; skin kati ho to aaj hi doctor ko dikhayein.
Dog bite: check the skin first
- Skin not broken (nail mark, play nip): no injection
- Skin broken, even slightly: see a doctor today
- Not sure the skin broke? Treat it as broken
If your own dog bit you
- Rabies is rare in a dog with yearly shots
- Skin broken? Still see a doctor the same day
- Take the dog's vaccine certificate; doctor usually starts the injection
- Dog well on day 10? Doctor may shorten the course
Dog bite: never do this
- No chilli, oil, turmeric, lime or salt on the bite
- Skin broke? Don't wait to see if dog falls ill
- Don't stop rabies injections when the bite heals
When help can’t wait
See a vet today if
- Your dog suddenly hides, or turns restless or clingy
- Dog drools, has a dropped jaw or weak back legs
- Dog snaps without reason, or its bark changes
- Dog ill, missing or showing these signs? Tell your doctor
Go to a clinic now
Deep or bleeding dog bite: hospital today. Dog acting strangely: keep people away, call a vet before moving it.
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.