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Puppy scratch: Is rabies a risk if it's alive after 2 months?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

If a puppy is still alive 2 months after it accidentally tooth-scratched someone, does it mean it did not transmit rabies that time? If it did transmit, should the puppy be dead of rabies already back then?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on February 25th, 2020

Yes, it means it did not transmit rabies. In order to transmit rabies, the dog has to be showing signs of it. In addition. the dog would be dead from rabies long before these two months have passed. You have no need to worry.

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1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 20th, 2019

    No. If that pet was infected with Rabies it would succumb to the diseaes and perish in less than 2 weeks. So if you are worreid about Rabies infection 2 months after possible exposure to a rabid animal, your pup is most definitely in the clear. : ) I hope this helps. Take care.

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    6Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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Austin is inside the house since 45 days. He hasn’t encountered any rabid animal or something like that. He isn’t showing any signs And is healthy. He keeps nipping and scratching me and tears my skin sometimes. Do i have a chance of getting rabies?
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Do I need to get rabies vaccine after my puppy scratched me? My puppy hasn't gotten the rabies shot yet. Thanks!!
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