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My new puppy licked my wound. Could he have rabies without signs?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | unneutered | 1 month and 4 days old | 3.307 lbs

Hi. How do I know whether my pup has rabies or not? He's not showing any obvious signs (aside from an occasional scratch-biting on his left hind leg), but I read that rabies can be asymptomatic(?) so I can't say for sure. He was in a dirty condition when I got him (orphaned at 2 weeks), so I fear that he may have been bitten by a rat or something. I have an open wound (which I initially did not know about) and he playfully licked on it. Are we both in danger? Thank you in advance.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on June 3rd, 2017

Your puppy can be tested for rabies and your wound should be checked by your doctor (human). Signs like the one describe are not typical of rabies, as you said, but it is best to have Voldemort checked by your veterinarian. a physical examination and blood test can reveal possible infection. Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

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    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on

    If you got him more than 10 days ago and he is behaving normally, it is likely he does not have rabies. Rats may carry the virus but rarely, if ever, spread the disease. They can spread a host of other diseases though, so an exam with your veterinarian would be recommended. See your own physician to assess your open wound and to discuss disease transmission to humans.

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