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My 2-month-old puppy scratched me. Is rabies a concern before vaccine?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed | 2 months and 24 days old

Hi. I have a 2 month old puppy. I got a little scratch on my toe but I am not sure if it was her nail or tooth. What should I do? Her rabies vaccine is scheduled next week. Btw my pets aren't exposed to any stray dogs in our area and her parents are vaccinated.

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Anna M., DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 3rd, 2019

Hello, and thanks for your question. As a vet, I cannot give human medical advice, but the likelihood of your puppy having rabies is extraordinarily small, if she seems otherwise healthy. My level of alarm would not be very high, but if you’re worried I recommend you consult with your doctor. IF Luna begins to act strange and dies in the next 10 days, then you could have her tested for rabies, for peace of mind. Hope this helps! :-)

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3Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

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    Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 20th, 2019

    You really should discuss your own/human health concerns with a physician//medical doctor - as vets we are not in a position to advise on human health. Light scratches are not generally a risk for rabies but can occasionally become infected with bacteria. I would wash the wounds carefully and check with a medical nurse or doctor

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 9th, 2018

    If there is no suspicion of rabies and the scratches are only superficial, they should not cause any harm. For any doubts refer to your local medical doctor. Hope this answer was helpful, but 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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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 20th, 2019

    Unfortunately we are not giving any advice on human health as this is outside our competence. Please discuss it with your local human doctor. Generally speaking I don't see anything to be worried about, but please report it to your doctor to have a final verdict on it.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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