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Do I Need To Get Rabies Vaccine Shots For Pain On Palm After Playing With Pet Puppy Not Vaccinated?

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Posted on Fri, 10 Jan 2014
Question: Hi Doctor, I was playing around with my puppy about five months old when it tried biting me on the left palm. I shook it off in time and there's no visible marks, wounds or blood but a small particular spot seems to be a bit painful if pressure is applied. Maybe it is just in my head that i feel my left arm feels a bit weak too. I immediately flush my hands with antiseptic liquids right after then wash it with soap in warm water for 5 to 8 minutes. The puppy has received no shots but is very healthy and not vicious. Do i need to get rabies vaccine shots? Please, am sort of freaking out.
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Answered by Dr. Vaishalee Punj (34 minutes later)
Brief Answer: Hi Detailed Answer: Hi Thanks for posting your query on XXXXXXX From your description, the dog bite did not puncture your skin to reach the blood. Also the pup is your pet and you have been observing it. The pup seems healthy from your description. The risk of infection from rabies is minimal. I personally do not think that you need rabies shot. Though you should get a tetanus booster shot (if it has been more than 2 - 10 yrs from previous shot depending on your immunity). I also recommend that you visit the doctor to rule out infection (other than rabies) from bite itself. Please get your pup vaccinated. Let me know if I can assist you further. Dr Vaishalee
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Dr. Vaishalee Punj

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2003

Answered : 3268 Questions

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Do I Need To Get Rabies Vaccine Shots For Pain On Palm After Playing With Pet Puppy Not Vaccinated?

Brief Answer: Hi Detailed Answer: Hi Thanks for posting your query on XXXXXXX From your description, the dog bite did not puncture your skin to reach the blood. Also the pup is your pet and you have been observing it. The pup seems healthy from your description. The risk of infection from rabies is minimal. I personally do not think that you need rabies shot. Though you should get a tetanus booster shot (if it has been more than 2 - 10 yrs from previous shot depending on your immunity). I also recommend that you visit the doctor to rule out infection (other than rabies) from bite itself. Please get your pup vaccinated. Let me know if I can assist you further. Dr Vaishalee