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What Should Be Done After A Dog Scratch?
Question: My daughter says she was scratched by a street dog yesterday. Later she said dat she had fallen while playing.there are two small scratches in her leg. How can I make sure whether it is a dog scratch or not.she is 5years old. Is rabies injection to be taken.
Brief Answer:
Needs careful evaluation.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for posting your query.
First of all try to take proper history from her what has happened.
It very difficult to make out whether the scratch is from injury or dog scratch or bite.
Still if she is uncertain and you are not confident, I will advise to visit your doctor and discuss taking anti rabies vaccine.
As in case of rabies we always treat suspected bite.
There is no harm in taking anti rabies vaccine even if there no dog bite.
I always prefer over treatment in such cases.
I hope this helps.
Regards,
Dr.Pragnesh
Needs careful evaluation.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for posting your query.
First of all try to take proper history from her what has happened.
It very difficult to make out whether the scratch is from injury or dog scratch or bite.
Still if she is uncertain and you are not confident, I will advise to visit your doctor and discuss taking anti rabies vaccine.
As in case of rabies we always treat suspected bite.
There is no harm in taking anti rabies vaccine even if there no dog bite.
I always prefer over treatment in such cases.
I hope this helps.
Regards,
Dr.Pragnesh
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vaishalee Punj
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