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Can being licked or touched by a dog cause infection?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

A small puppy was playing with me and then he started touching my finger with its teeth. Does that really matter? Kindly suggest.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and understand your concern. As long as there is no break of the skin - it does not matter. Some general information:

1. Rabies vaccine should be taken if there is a dog bite or when the dog licks the mucous membrane structures like the nose, eyes, mouth, or wounded skin, or if a dog scratches.

2. Wash the wound completely under running tap water with soap for 15 minutes.

3. Watch and observe the dog for a period of 10 days for any unnatural behavior, activities, or death.

4. There are no dietary restrictions before or after a rabies vaccine - vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian food is allowed, but do not consume alcohol while under treatment.

5. Do not take any other vaccine other than tetanus (if required) during the treatment protocol.

I hope you find this helpful. Thank you.

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At October 31, 2023
Reviewed AtOctober 31, 2023

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Sharoff Lokesh Mohan
Dr. Sharoff Lokesh Mohan

Orthopedician and Traumatology

Consult this doctor
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