Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My unvaccinated dog gave me a tooth scratch. Do I need a rabies shot?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Spitz | Female | 7 months and 12 days old

I got a very light tooth scratch from my dog. She do not have any anti rabies injections yet. Is it necessary for me to take an injection for myself?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 27th, 2018

I would recommend that you do, especially if you are in an area that has a high incidence of rabies. That being said, I am not a human doctor and you should be consulting with your personal doctor. It always better to err on the side of caution in these cases since rabies is a 99.99% fatal disease. As for Eva, you need to get her rabies vaccination done as soon as possible. Best wishes.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet keeps scratching its ear. What's causing this problem?
Is your pet scratching their ear often? A certified Petco veterinarian explains common causes like otitis or infection and how to identify the problem.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu lost teeth after an accident. How can I feed him soft foods?
Your degu had an accident, lost teeth, and can't eat hard food. A Petco Vet Tech offers crucial advice on immediate vet care and how to feed your injured degu.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu has trouble breathing, coughing, and nose discharge. Help?
Is your degu struggling to breathe, coughing, or have nasal discharge? A trusted vet offers vital guidance on respiratory issues like pneumonia and how to help.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has worsening sores and scratches. Could it be an infection?
Nike's worsening sores and constant scratching worry his owner. A certified Petco veterinarian offers expert guidance on potential causes like bacterial infections and next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My ferret has bloody urine and bladder stones. Is it an emergency?
Ferret has bloody urine, possibly bladder stones? A certified vet advises if waiting until tomorrow for an appointment is safe, especially if he's still urinating.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored